Santiago's Determination In The Old Man And The Sea

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The Old Man and the Sea follows an old man, Santiago, in his relentless pursuit to catch a marlin in order to prove his capabilities in spite of his old age. His determination propels him throughout the novel despite the obstacles he faces such as physical pain, loneliness, and predators. In addition, his determination comments on the inner nature of human beings and the results one can gain from acting upon it. Hemingway uses Santiago’s determination to reveal that due to the difficulty of obtaining goals, people should be willing to persevere through the obstacles they face in order to gain results. Throughout the novel, Santiago endures and faces many obstacles and beasts at sea that attempt to deter him from his goal, but he is still manages …show more content…

The opponents Santiago faces are larger and stronger in comparison, but he does not let those factors frighten him. Upon seeing the marlin, he remarks at how large the marlin is compared to his previous catches and constantly calls it “noble” and “calm.” Despite its size, he states, “They are not as intelligent as we who kill them; although they are more noble and able” (63). His statement shows that even though the fish is physically strong and has the power to overtake him, he is not intimidated because he is aware of his capabilities and his intellect. Most people Santiago’s age may be daunted to take part in such a task, but Santiago is courageous enough to fight against a fish who possesses the agility and strength he lacks in his old age which allows him to combat the fish as an equal. In addition, he is able to fight off formidable and vicious Mako sharks without fear, even losing valuable tools such as his harpoon in the process. Santiago’s encounter with the shark is described as “He knew that this was a shark that he had no fear at all and would do exactly what he wished” (101). His courageous act highlights his determination since he does not submit to the shark’s attack, instead he is willing to put himself in danger in order to protect his prize and not let others take it away from him. The sharks are more powerful and stronger than the old man, but he is able to parallel their

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