EXTRINSIC ELEMENTS, BACKGROUND OF THE AUTHOR'S LIFE,

AND SOCIAL-CULTURAL BACKGROUND ARE REFLECTED IN THE

WORK

Based on:
The Old Man and the Sea (1990)

Member of group:
1 . Bagus Damai Pratama (E1D0220)
2.Destine Latifa Azhary (E1D022075)
3. Sunan bajang Januarta (E1D021130)

Introduction
"The Old Man and the Sea," written by Ernest Hemingway and published in 1952, is a
novella that offers a deep insight into human struggle, perseverance, and resilience. The
story is enriched by various extrinsic elements that reflect Hemingway's life, the historical
context, and the cultural background of the setting. This paper explores these elements to
provide a deeper understanding of how they shape the narrative and its themes.

Background of the Author's Life

Ernest Hemingway's Biography

Ernest Hemingway (1899-1961) was a renowned American writer known for his concise and
impactful writing style. He wrote several significant works, including "The Old Man and the
Sea," "A Farewell to Arms," and "For Whom the Bell Tolls." Hemingway won the Nobel Prize
in Literature in 1954 and is considered one of the greatest writers of the 20th century.

Hemingway's Personal Experience

Hemingway was an experienced fisherman and had a profound love for the sea. His fishing
experiences and life near the sea are reflected in the detailed and authentic descriptions of
the fisherman's life in "The Old Man and the Sea." Santiago, the protagonist, embodies
Hemingway's spirit of adventure and deep connection with the ocean. As Santiago reflects,
"He was an old man who fished alone in a skiff in the Gulf Stream" (Hemingway, 1990, p. 5).

Social and Cultural Background

Influence of Hemingway's Life in Cuba

Hemingway lived in Cuba for many years, where he wrote "The Old Man and the Sea." The
influence of Cuban culture and life is clearly seen in the setting of the story and its
characters. The Cuban fishing village and the Gulf Stream are portrayed with vivid detail,
reflecting Hemingway's intimate knowledge of the area. The marlin fishing context is also
significant, as marlin fishing was a highly popular activity in Cuba at the time. Hemingway
frequently participated in this activity, providing an authentic backdrop for the story.

Post-World War II Context

The novel was published in 1952, a period marked by significant changes in societal views
on courage, struggle, and perseverance. These themes are central to Santiago's story, as
he battles against the marlin and faces life's hardships with unwavering determination. The
values of honor and perseverance were highly esteemed in Hemingway's society, and this is
clearly reflected in Santiago's character. Hemingway writes, "But man is not made for
defeat... A man can be destroyed but not defeated" (Hemingway, 1990, p. 103).

Values and Norms

There are several valuses and norms in "The Old Man and the Sea” :
1. Courage and Perseverance: Santiago's relentless struggle against the marlin showcases
his courage and perseverance.
2. Honor and Integrity: Santiago maintains his honor and integrity despite his struggles and
failures.
3. Wisdom and Experience: Santiago's deep knowledge of the sea reflects his wisdom and
experience.
4. Acceptance of Fate: Santiago accepts his fate with dignity, embodying the value of
resilience in the face of adversity.
Religion and Beliefs: Christian Symbolism
The novel contains abundant Christian symbolism. Santiago is often compared to Jesus
Christ in his suffering and heroic struggle. This is evident in the way he bears his burdens
and faces his challenges with patience and courage. Hemingway writes, "He started to climb
again and at the top he fell and lay for some time with the mast across his shoulder"
(Hemingway, 1990, p. 121), symbolizing Santiago's Christ-like endurance.

Conclusion
"The Old Man and the Sea" is greatly enriched by extrinsic elements such as Hemingway's
personal experiences, the post-World War II context, and Cuban culture. These elements
shape the story's setting and characters, highlighting values like courage, perseverance,
honor, and wisdom. The Christian symbolism in Santiago's journey further deepens the
themes of suffering and redemption. Understanding these influences helps us appreciate
Hemingway's storytelling and the novel's profound insights into the human spirit.

References
Hemingway, E. (1990). The Old Man and the Sea.