Character of Santiago in The Old Man and the Sea by Hemingway

Santiago is a very old man, who's been a fisherman his entire life. He is well respected, talented, and knows his craft. Unfortunately, he is in the midst of a long spell in which he has not caught a fish. Many of the younger fishermen call him unlucky. Manolin, his helper, is made to fish with another boat by his parents, who call Santiago unlucky. Even Santiago, calls himself unlucky. None-the-less, there are also many who continue to respect his skill.

Determined to make a big catch, Santiago goes out on his own and fishes alone. He is determined, prepared, self-sacrificing, respectful of nature, and in a large way..... desperate. The Old Man and the Sea is the story of the old man, and the way he deals with adversity.