This paper is trying to analyze the protagonist named Santiago in The Old Man and the Sea,interpreting his characterization created by Hemingway.Through the analysis of his dialogue with the child,the monologue to fishes and his hands when he is fishing,his living environment,relationship,as well the struggles with the big fish and sharks in detail,readers can know the excellent qualities of Santiago better.At the same time,this paper emphatically elaborates Santiago’s image of hero and tough guy.It vividly shows that he is a tough guy with elegant behaviors,optimistic attitude and a lonely heart. This paper is trying to analyze the protagonist named Santiago in The Old Man and the Sea, interpreting his characterization created by Hemingway. Through the analysis of his dialogue with the child, the monologue to fishes and his hands when he is fishing, his living environment , relationship, as well the struggles with the big fish and sharks in detail, readers can know the excellent qualities of Santiago better. At the same time, this paper emphatically elaborates Santiago’s image of hero and tough guy. It vividly shows that he is a tough guy with elegant behaviors, optimistic attitude and a lonely heart.