The famous line from Ernest Hemingway’s book The Old Man and the Sea, “Man can be destroyed but not defeated,” perfectly captures Santiago’s tenacious nature. Santiago endures countless obstacles and physical adversity throughout the narrative, but his unbreakable spirit and unwavering resolve keep him from falling.

Physical Struggles and Endurance

Santiago’s physical fortitude is put to the test as he fights the marlin nonstop. He is in agony, exhausted, and his hands are blistered, but he will not give in. To quote Santiago, “Pain does not matter to a man” (Hemingway, 57). This demonstrates his determination and inner strength by showing