The Old Man and the Sea Characters
S
Santiago
Protagonist
Perseverant
Resilient
Humble
Determined
Santiago is an old and impoverished fisherman from a small village near Havana, Cuba. He has endured a long streak of bad luck without catching a fish. Despite his old age and physical limitations, he demonstrates remarkable perseverance and inner strength throughout his struggle.
M
Manolin
Supporting
Caring
Loyal
Devoted
Compassionate
Manolin is a young boy who deeply loves and cares for Santiago. He previously fished alongside the old man until his parents required him to join a more successful boat. Despite this separation, he continues to look after Santiago's wellbeing.
M
Marlin
Symbolic
Massive
Powerful
Formidable
Majestic
The marlin is an enormous fish, larger and stronger than anything Santiago has ever caught. It serves as both a physical adversary and a symbolic representation of nature's grandeur and the ultimate challenge facing the old man.
F
Fishermen
Minor
Judgmental
Admiring
Community-minded
The village fishermen initially look down on Santiago due to his prolonged bad luck. However, their attitude shifts to admiration when they witness the sheer size of the marlin's skeleton, reflecting the community's respect for great achievement.
M
Martin
Minor
Generous
Kindhearted
Accommodating
Martin is the owner of the local café in Santiago's village. He demonstrates generosity by allowing Manolin to take free food to the old man, playing a quiet but supportive role in Santiago's survival.
P
Perico
Minor
Generous
Thoughtful
Perico never physically appears in the story but is mentioned as a provider of newspapers for Santiago. Despite his absence from the narrative, he contributes to the old man's modest quality of life.