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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. Why does the boy stop fishing with Santiago?

2. What advice does Santiago give the boy about the boat he is now working on?

3. What does Santiago think about giving up hope?

4. What does the old man eat to keep up his strength?

5. How does he get something to eat?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the old man utilize the power of positive thinking as he struggles with the huge marlin during the night?

2. Describe the scene that shows the good nature and high character of Santiago.

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

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

5. Explain the significance of the scattered thoughts of the old man as he struggles to hold onto the fish.

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

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

8. Discuss the conflict of resolution between the old man and the fish.

9. Discuss how Hemingway uses the man-of-war bird, the dolphins, and the flying fish to explain the nature of life in the sea.

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 overcoming difficulties in life.

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 why you think Hemingway did or did not know about deep sea fishing.

(see the answer keys)

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