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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. When does Santiago realize the depth of his tiredness?

2. Who does the boy fear will defeat the Yankees?

3. What vow does the old man make to the fish?

4. What does the old man eat to get more strength after he washed his face and hands?

5. As Santiago keeps vigil over his line, what does he wish for?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is it important for Santiago to see the fish he has caught?

2. After the marlin jumps during the night, there is a lull. What does it allow Santiago to do?

3. Why can the old man not let go of the line as the big fish tows his skiff farther out to sea?

4. Describe Santiago's meal on the second day and why he was so pleased after he ate.

5. Why is the story about an old man instead of a young one?

6. While sleeping in the boat, what are Santiago's dream like?

7. When there is another bite on one of his other lines, Santiago cuts it loose. Why?

8. Explain the meaning of the statement that Santiago loved the lions in his dreams like he loved the boy.

9. How does Santiago compare himself to the great sea turtles that are as big as a skiff and weigh a ton?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay about how people turn to religion when times are difficult.

Essay Topic 2

Write a summary of The Old Man and the Sea.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay about how Santiago took chances because of his bad luck.

(see the answer keys)

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