Characterisation of Manolin in Old Man And The Sea Essay

Old man and the sea

A young boy who is probably in his teens named Manolin is Santiagos apprentice and devoted attendant. The old man first took him out on a boat when he was merely five years old. Manolin is referred to as the boy. Like Santiago, Manolin comes from a family of fishermen and has long admired Santiago in his trade. Although Manolins father has forbidden him to go fishing with Santiago because of the old mans bad luck, Manolin nevertheless continues to visit Santiago and to help him in whatever ways he can. Manolin shows great concern for Santiagos health, especially after he sees how Santiago has suffered in catching the big marlin.

As a mark of his friendship and respect for Manolin, Santiago has given him certain responsibilities from an early age, such as fetching bait and carrying the lines. Manolins own father only makes fun of his sons relationship with Santiago saying that the old man will never catch anything. His love for Santiago is unmistakable as the two discuss baseball and as the young boy recruits help from villagers to improve the old mans impoverished conditions. By the end of the book, however, the boy abandons his duty to his father, swearing that he will sail with the old man regardless of the consequences.

Even though Manolin appears only at the beginning and the end of the story, he is an important character. Manolins conversations with Santiago, and Santiagos longing for the boys company when he is alone, reveal the character of both men. Santiago is seen as a loving, patient, and brave man, both proud and humble, who accepts and appreciates life, despite all its hardships. Manolin is shown to be someone who loves and respects Santiago, and who realizes that he can learn things from the old man that he cannot learn at home.

Manolin undergoes an important change between the beginning and end of the story. At the beginning he still defers to the wishes of his parents that he not accompany Santiago fishing since the old mans luck has turned bad. By the end of the story, however, Manolin has resolved to go with the old man, lucky or not, in spite of his parents wishes.