The Old Man and the Sea Case

At the end of Hemmingway's novel, The Old Man and the Sea, Santiago emerges undefeated. Santiago is a victor where defeat is defined as losing the willpower and hope that enable one to face challenges and learn from his mistakes. Santiago is an old Cuban fisherman who seems to be out of luck. He has gone eighty-fou]people consider him a joke, deeming him 'salao' which is the worst form of being unlucky. Even though the village people gossip about him with skepticism, he still continues to go out every morning to fish. He states, "I have no luck anymore. But who knows? Maybe today. Everyday is a new day" (pg. 32) This positive outlook shows that he has not lost hope. Instead of dwelling on the past, Santiago starts every day anew, refusing to give up fishing. This is also a demonstration of Santiago's willpower as he refuses to let his past misfortune discourage him and does not lose his will to fish.

One day, after having ventured far out to the sea, he manages to hook a marlin. He wrestles with this enormous fish for three grueling days before he finally catches and kills it. However, this battle leaves a trail of blood in t hope to a sin, Santiago is stating that it is dishonorable and wrong to lose hope regardless of the difficulties that one may face. This will power and ability to maintain hope will enable him to emerge undefeated even when faced with his most difficult challenge.

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