Do you think that it is appropriate to see Santiago as a Christ figure? Give reasons for your answer.
The Old Man and the Sea is a notable literary work by Ernest Hemingway. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Old Man and the Sea.
Answer
Do you think that it is appropriate to see Santiago as a Christ figure? Give reasons for your answer. [2015]
Or, Do you find any resemblance between Santiago and Jesus Christ in Hemingway’s novel “The Old Man and the Sea?”
Nobel Prize-winning author, Ernest Hemingway (1899–1961), wrote “The Old Man and the Sea” in 1952. This famous novella presents Santiago as more than a simple fisherman. Through his pain, endurance, and spirit, he becomes a symbol of Christ. Hemingway fills the story with Christian images: wounds, suffering, sacrifice, and final peace. Like Christ, Santiago bears his cross, accepts his fate, and finds meaning in pain.
Suffering and Sacrifice: Santiago’s deep suffering clearly reflects Christ’s sacrifice. During his long struggle with the marlin, he receives three bleeding wounds. The narrator says,
“He felt the line with his right hand and noticed his hand was bleeding.”
This reminds us of Christ’s hands nailed to the cross. Santiago accepts the pain silently, without a word of complaint. His suffering is not useless; it gives him dignity and strength. He fights alone on the sea, carrying his burden as Christ carried His cross.
Bearing the Cross: After returning from the sea, Santiago carries the mast of his boat on his shoulders, just as Christ carried the cross to His crucifixion. The narrator says,
“Then he shouldered the mast and started to climb.”
This scene is rich in Christian symbolism. The mast becomes the cross of pain and faith. Santiago’s walk through the dark path to his shack is like Christ’s walk to Calvary. When he finally lies down, his arms are stretched out, like Christ’s position on the cross.
Love and Forgiveness: Like Christ, Santiago’s heart is full of love and forgiveness. He loves all living beings: the birds, the sea, and even the fish he kills. He says softly,
“Fish, I love you and respect you very much.”
This love reflects Christ’s message of compassion. Santiago’s battleUnlock this study guide now