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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 commonality does Santiago observe in deep water fish when they pick up speed?

2. What promise does the old man make if he brings in the fish?

3. Why is Santiago so sure that the Yankees will win their next games?

4. Who does Santiago say should get the head of the marlin?

5. Why does Santiago feel sorry for the terns?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is the metaphoric significance of the arm wrestling match in Casablanca?

2. Show how Hemingway uses the literary form of personification as Santiago thinks about the great fish he has hooked.

3. Describe the last moments that define the valor of the great marlin.

4. Aside from the times that Santiago actually says, "I'm lonely", how does Hemingway emphasize that situation?

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

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

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

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

9. What makes Manolin cry after he discovers the old man at his house?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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

Essay Topic 2

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

Essay Topic 3

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

(see the answer keys)

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