Many heroes exist in literature from the past, present, and future. Some are obvious heroes and are even referred to as such in the actual writing of the pieces of work. Yet there remain some that are not easily recognized as being heroic. In the book, The Old Man and the Sea, a character who displays heroism is contained. This old man, named Santiago, fights nature in that of the sea and its creatures is clearly heroic to some. The old man shows absolute determination, unyielding strength, and relentless courage.
             First, Santiago displays amazing determination. He is absolutely determined to catch a Marlin from the sea and bring it home. The main reason though is not to gain recognition for it when he returns. It is rather a personal journey from which he completes himself and does so without constantly thinking of how long this venture is taking. Santiago is stuck on accomplishing his task and will not back down. This heroic characteristic of being determined is a very important nutrient in the making of a full-bred hero of sorts.
             Second, the old man shows unsurpassed strength. This is displayed throughout his journey. It is shown early on by the fact that he paddled his way out far into the open sea. Also, when he eventually catches his beloved Marlin, he holds onto the rope holding the Marlin for hours upon hours and eventually days. The old man is not described as being of large size that would ordinarily accompany strength, but he seemed to be of a small compact size. This small stature was his physical size possibly, but he was full of concentrated strength and also extending endurance that allowed him to hold onto the Marlin which by all means could not have been released.
             Third, the old man shows relentless courage. Courage was also revealed throughout the story. By traveling out in the middle of the sea by himself was the beginning of his courageous efforts. Also, when Santiago was attacked multiple tim...