Character Analysis of Robert Jordan and Santiago: The Sublime Parables of the Unconquerable Human Spirit against the Heavy Odds

Abstract

Ernest Hemingway is one of America's most distinguished novelists of the twentieth century. The protagonists of Ernest Hemingway are emblematic of resilience and fortitude, navigating through life’s physical and psychological adversities. Robert Jordan, a guerrilla fighter in the Spanish Civil War, embodies the existential struggle against a hostile universe, dealing with deep emotional scars and imminent death with unyielding courage. Santiago, the old fisherman, epitomizes the Hemingway code hero, demonstrating indomitable strength and perseverance in his relentless battle with a giant marlin. Despite severe injuries and overwhelming challenges, both characters maintain their dignity and exemplify the essence of "grace under pressure." This analysis delves into Hemingway’s exploration of human resilience, highlighting how his heroes reflect the profound courage and perseverance that define the human spirit in the face of adversity. The characters of Santiago and Robert Jordan deal with the vital issues of mortality, hope, despair, and determination, where they fight back against adverse circumstances to regain their honor and dignity, exhibiting the indestructible spirit of man at its best.