THE OLD MAN AND THE SEATHEMES & SYMBOLS

THEMES

• The novel is rich in symbolism that enhances both the plot and the themes. The major symbol is the sea, which stands for all of life on which man must sail. In both the sea and in life, there are a number of possibilities that lie hidden from the common eye; some are gifts to be treasured and some are problems to be defeated

• In the novel, Santiago embarks on a sea journey (life) and encounters a giant marlin (treasure). He battles nobly to earn the treasure and then fights the sharks (problems) to save it. The struggle defines him as a hero. Even though he loses the treasure (the marlin) to the sharks (the problems), he has won the sea battle (life).

1. The Honor in Struggle, Defeat & Death

• Both Santiago and the marlin display qualities of pride, honor, and bravery, and both are subject to the same eternal law: they must kill or be killed.

2.Pride as Source of Greatness & Determination

• Many parallels exist between Santiago and the classic heroes of the ancient world. In addition to exhibiting terrific strength, bravery, and moral certainty, those heroes usually possess a tragic flaw, a quality that, though admirable, leads to their eventual downfall. If pride is Santiago’s fatal flaw, he is keenly aware of it.

SYMBOLS• The Sea

According to Hemingway, man was most able to prove himself worthy in isolation. The sea, in the novel, represents the Universe and Santiago's isolation in the Universe. It is at sea, with no help and no recognition, that Santiago faces his ultimate challenge. The novel, in this regard, is an example of Naturalism in Literature.

• The MarlinThe marlin represents the ultimate opponent, one that brings out the best in Santiago.

• The SharksSantiago considers the sharks base predators, not worthy of glory. They represent destructive forces in life that serve no purpose.

• Joe DimaggioSantiago considers Joe Dimaggio unbeatable. He symbolizes the indomitable will of the human spirit. Dimaggio, at the time the book was written, suffered from a bone spur, mentioned in the novel. Despite the bone spur, DiMaggio overcame his opponents, much in the same way Santiago overcomes his, despite injuries.

• The LionsSantiago dreams of Lions on the beach in Africa three times. They represent virility and youth. The lion imagery at the end of the novel represents hope of eternal life.

• The MastThe mast is an obvious allusion to the cross of Jesus. It is on his skiff, where stands the mast, that Santiago suffers. Santiago suffers at sea for three days with painful injuries to the palms of his hands and his back.

• ManolinSantiago's young friend represents hope. Although Manolin's father prohibits him from fishing with Santiago, who is believed to be cursed, Manolin never abandons him emotionally. It can be argued, however, that as Santiago fishes, he is without hope. The 84-day fishless streak attests to it.

• The lost harpoonSantiago loses the harpoon as he fends off sharks, symbolic of individuals who lose their faith as life's woes attack. Much like Santiago without a harpoon, those without faith are defenseless.