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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does Santiago imagine was the reason the fish finally jumped?

2. How does Santiago know that he is not dead?

3. What does the old man imagine about the marlin if it had been alive?

4. After Santiago goes back to sleep, what is he dreaming of?

5. What does Santiago mean when he thinks that man is not made for defeat?

Short Essay Questions

1. Santiago does not consider himself to be religious, but what happens to show that he was at one time before?

2. On the second night, describe the old man's recollection that shows how strong he was years ago.

3. How does the conflict intensify on the second night?

4. Since the fish is too large to fit into the boat, how does Santiago plan on getting it back to shore?

5. What significance does Santiago place on the sudden pull the fish makes on the line after swimming steadily all night long?

6. What happens when the first shark attacks the marlin?

7. It is now the next day and Santiago had brought no provisions for a meal at sea. What does he have to eat?

8. Discuss the physical infirmity that begins to plague Santiago on the second day at sea.

9. Identify a few passages in the story that indicate the pride of Santiago.

10. What is the literary purpose of references to Joe DiMaggio in the story?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay about respect for nature. Use Santiago as support for your position.

Essay Topic 2

Write your opinion about Hemingway's style of writing. Use examples from the book.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay about gaining knowledge and wisdom through experience versus formal education. Use Santiago as your example.

(see the answer keys)

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