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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 assistance for the old man does the boy try to get?

2. What complaint does the boy have about the fisherman he works for after he is forced to leave Santiago?

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

4. What is a favorite topic of conversation for Santiago and the boy?

5. What does Santiago mean when he says that he must think because that is all he has left?

Short Essay Questions

1. What knowledge does seeing the marlin bring to the old man?

2. After Santiago manages to kill the shovel-nosed sharks that have taken about a quarter of the meat off his marlin, how does he feel?

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

4. What does the fish do that helps revive Santiago from his weariness?

5. How does Hemingway use conversation between the old man and the boy to show Santiago's age?

6. Why was it simple for Santiago to defeat the Negro of Cienfuegas when they had a rematch in the spring?

7. Santiago recalls that he used to sing on the turtle boats, whereas now he talks out loud to himself. When does he think the talking began?

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

9. As the conflict between man and fish continues, what does Santiago contemplate to gain advantage for himself? Explain.

10. How does Hemingway demonstrate Santiago's expertise as a sailor and fisherman?

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 an essay about all the causes for Santiago's becoming addled during this fishing trip.

Essay Topic 3

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

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 858 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample