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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. Even though the boy can no longer fish with Santiago, how does he show his loyalty?

2. As he heads home and stops to look back, what does Santiago see?

3. What does Santiago have besides his strength?

4. What does the old man think is a greater punishment for the marlin than the hook in his mouth?

5. What sound of nature replaces human sounds as Santiago rows farther and farther out to sea?

Short Essay Questions

1. What new indication tells Santiago and the reader that this is a truly remarkable fish after the moonlight jump?

2. What indicates that Santiago has no idea of catching the largest marlin ever landed in those waters?

3. What is Santiago's analysis of having a cramp, especially when one is alone?

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

5. Discuss the idea of luck in The Old Man and the Sea.

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

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

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

9. How does Santiago show his resolution as he holds the line and thinks about all the things the fish might do?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay about the effects of loneliness on people.

Essay Topic 2

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

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay about symbolism Hemingway uses in The Old Man and the Sea.

(see the answer keys)

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