Cuba and history
The Caribbean island country where Ernest Hemingway spent many years and which is associated with the setting of The Old Man and the Sea.
Cuba.
What was the main source of income for many families in Cojimar?
Fishing
What type of boat did Santiago use for fishing?
A Skiff
What is the name of the young boy who cares about Santiago and learns from him?
Manolin.
The fishing village east of Havana that inspired Hemingway's portrayal of Cuban fishing life and is home to a monument honoring him.
Cojimar.
Besides fishing, what sport did Hemingway teach local Cuban children?
Boxing.
What body of water does Santiago sail into?
The Straits of Florida.
What does the open sea represent in contrast to Santiago's village?
Isolation, uncertainty, freedom, and danger.
This major agricultural industry dominated Cuba's exports around 1950 and played an important role in its trade with the United States.
The sugar industry (sugar production).
Besides preparing their boats, what did fishermen do at the harbor?
They shared stories, discussed their experiences, and exchanged fishing knowledge.
Where was the airplane traveling from and to?
From Havana to Miami.
How does Santiago's attitude toward the marlin demonstrate his relationship with nature?
He respects and admires the marlin as a worthy opponent rather than viewing it only as a prize.
This Cuban leader seized power in a military coup in 1952, disrupting the country's constitutional political process.
Fulgencio Batista.
What basic equipment did traditional fishermen in Cojimar use?
Small wooden boats and handlines.
How did the temperatures differ between the day and night?
Extremely hot during the day and very cold at night.
After Santiago catches the marlin, what prevents him from bringing home most of its meat?
Sharks attack and eat most of the marlin.
How did Hemingway's experiences in Cuba influence The Old Man and the Sea?
They helped him create a realistic setting inspired by Cuban fishing life.
Which Virgin was traditionally considered a protector of fishermen in Cojimar, and which Virgin did Santiago promise to visit in the novel?
The Virgen del Carmen and the Virgin of Cobre, respectively.
What type of bird does Santiago spot while fishing?
A man-of-war bird (frigatebird).
Even though Santiago loses most of the marlin to sharks, why can his journey still be considered a victory?
He demonstrates endurance, skill, and perseverance.