The Construction of Santiago’s Identity through Nature in Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea

Abstract

This dissertation aims to examine the heroism of the old fisherman presented in Ernest Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea. The protagonist, Santiago, experiences a process of self-fulfillment that will require his determination and humility to achieve dignity. The fishing of the marlin produces the creation of a brotherhood between the fisherman and the fish in the sea of the Gulf Stream, a place that will pose a challenge in itself, since every living being can kill or be killed. Hence, in this dangerous atmosphere, Santiago manages himself to catch the marlin and guide what remains of him after several struggles with the sharks towards his town in Cuba. When he eventually returns, the old fisherman is recognized as a hero for most of the people, because of the great size of the marlin; and for Manolin, his friend and pupil, due to his demonstration of courage of spirit and his mental and physical stamina.