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Analysis of Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on October 8, 2022

The most popular novel of the Brazilian writer Paulo Coelho (1947– ), The Alchemist combines philosophical ideas and words of wisdom about ambition, perseverance, and success. Since its publication in 1988, the novel has has sold over 150 million copies worldwide, won 115 international prizes and awards, has been translated into 80 languages, and is still on the New York Times bestseller list today.

The Alchemist narrates the story of a shepherd boy called Santiago who travels with his flock, looking for the best pastures for his sheep in the Andalusian countryside. The conflict arises early in the novel’s plot when Santiago chooses to seek an interpretation of a recent dream and is advised to travel to the pyramids in Egypt and look for a hidden treasure. The novel narrates the mystical experiences of Santiago as he travels from Spain, through the Egyptian desert and on to the great pyramids, seeking the fulfillment of his dream.

Coelho’s novel is almost mythical in structure, with a linear plot and single story line recounted in simple language. The tightly written narrative is not embellished by elaborate characterization, explanations, or historical details, and any detail irrelevant to the main plot is conspicuously absent. The entire emphasis of the novel remains on eternally valid truths, which Coelho attempts to convey through the story. The symbolic elements in the narrative, the universal quality of the protagonist’s experiences, and the message the novel suggests to the reader account for much of T he Alchemist ’s popularity.

The Alchemist underlines an idea or wish that human beings strongly want to believe: If one sincerely desires something, the whole universe conspires to fulfill that dream. Coelho conveys, through the novel, that this sentiment is a lie and that at some point in life people lose the ability to control their lives and become the playthings of fate. He suggests that by listening to one’s heart and by heeding omens and signs, one can control destiny. The strong undercurrent of optimism, which runs through the narrative, is the novel’s greatest charm.

It is notable that in the tale Santiago’s chance encounters with people bring him closer to his aim and motivate him to continue his quest despite his complacence at times. His meeting with the Gypsy fortune- teller in the beginning is followed immediately by a meeting with the old king of Salem, Melchizedek, who is aware of Santiago’s past and future and urges the boy to pursue his vision. An unfortunate experience with a thief in Tangier disheartens the searcher for a time, but his memories of the words of the king guide him to the right course of action. The crystal merchant for whom Santiago works for almost a year prefers to dream of going on a pilgrimage instead of embarking on a journey to Mecca in real life. The crystal merchant’s fear of failure shakes Santiago into resolving to follow his dream.

Santiago later meets an Englishman who harbors the hope of meeting the mysterious alchemist, an Arab who lives at the Al-Fayoum oasis and possesses exceptional powers. Santiago joins the caravan with the En glishman to travel to Egypt, and it is during this journey that the shepherd boy comes to know about the soul of the world, the language of the heart, and the intricacies of the science of alchemy. The shepherd boy’s budding love for an Arabian girl, Fatima, whom he meets during his voyage through the desert, tempts him into giving up his quest for the treasure, but aptly enough Fatima plays the role of a soul mate and coaxes Santiago to continue his difficult expedition. Toward the end of the novel, Santiago’s meeting with the alchemist in the desert helps the young seeker to discover his inner strengths and brings him closer to realizing his destiny.

Omens, signs, dreams, and visions pervade the narrative and act like refrains in this song of the desert. It is only by taking note of these subtle revelations of his subconscious mind that Santiago rises to the alchemist’s expectations and bravely faces all the trials that await him. In The Alchemist, Coelho suggests through Santiago’s tale that it is only by finding and following one’s “personal myth” that one can hope to achieve success, contentment, and happiness. Those who do not have the courage to pursue their deepest desires end up living an empty and doomed life plagued by dissatisfaction and frustration.

BIBLIOGRAPHY Arias, Juan. Paulo Coelho: The Confessions of a Pilgrim. London: HarperCollins, 1999. Coelho, Paulo. Like the Flowing River: Thoughts and Reflections. London: HarperCollins, 2006.

71 The Alchemist Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best the alchemist topic ideas & essay examples, 📌 most interesting the alchemist topics to write about, 👍 good research topics about the alchemist, ❓ the alchemist essay questions.

“The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho Literature Analysis Coelho demonstrates that while the love demanding the sacrifice of one’s dream is not true, the genuine love serves as a stimulus for living out the Personal Legend and achieving the happiness.
A Metaphor for Life: “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho In the same spirit of appreciation, the boy Santiago appreciated the advice given to him in the story, which leads him to acquire the treasure that he set out to look for.
Finding the Identity in “The Alchemist” by Coelho As a great poet and playwright, William Shakespeare said that the whole world is a theater, and the people are actors. After entering college, my status changed to a student, and it is one of […]
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How Does the Story of Narcissus Relate to “The Alchemist”?
Who Is the Antagonist in “The Alchemist”?
What Do the Englishman and the Crystal Merchant Have in Common in “The Alchemist”?
How Old Is Santiago in “The Alchemist”?
Why Did Paulo Coelho Choose the Title “The Alchemist”?
What Religion Is “The Alchemist” Based On?
What Did the Arabs Find When They Searched the Alchemist in “The Alchemist”?
What Do the Sheep Symbolize in “The Alchemist”?
How Did the Alchemist Distribute the Gold in “The Alchemist”?
What Is the Emerald Tablet in “The Alchemist”?
What Happens in “The Alchemist” Ending?
What Is the Elixir of Life in “The Alchemist”?
What Did the Alchemist Do at the Coptic Monastery in “The Alchemist”?
Who Are the Moors in “The Alchemist”?
What Do the Hawks Symbolize in “The Alchemist”?
What Does the Cobra Symbolize in “The Alchemist”?
How Was the Concept of an Inner Journey Conveyed in Paulo Coelho’s “The Alchemist”?
Is “The Alchemist” a Religious Book?
What Is the World’s Greatest Lie in “The Alchemist”?
What Are the Major Themes in “The Alchemist”?
What Are the Four Obstacles in “The Alchemist”?
Who Robbed Santiago in “The Alchemist”?
How the Theme “Appearances vs. Reality” Is Shown as a Reflection of Actuality in “The Alchemist”?
What Is the Central Conflict in “The Alchemist”?
What Does the Snake Symbolize in “The Alchemist”?
What Is the Secret to Life According to Coelho in “The Alchemist”?
What Does the Alchemist Symbolize in “The Alchemist”?
How Does “The Alchemist” Relates to African American Studies?
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The Alchemist

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The Alchemist (Coelho)

By paulo coelho, the alchemist (coelho) essay questions.

The prologue of The Alchemist includes a unique retelling of the myth of Narcissus. The traditional understanding of this myth is that it is a warning against self-love. What is the relationship of the prologue to the rest of the story?

The main difference between the retelling of the Narcissus myth in the prologue of The Alchemist and the traditional telling is that, in the version in the prologue, the lake in which Narcissus drowns also misses Narcissus because it could regard itself in his eyes. Thus, the lake is itself selfish. In many ways, The Alchemist is all about selfishness. While society tends to regard the single-minded pursuit of one's dreams as selfish, the story proposes that this single-minded pursuit is not at odds with being a moral, happy person. Central to the story of The Alchemist is the idea that one's Personal Legend, or true desire, is not at odds with the organization of the universe. In fact, the opposite is true. Discovering one's Personal Legend is the only way to understand the greater secrets of the Soul of the World. This reversal of traditional views on selfishness is foreshadowed by the unique retelling of the Narcissus story.

What is the significance of the fact that Santiago hails from the southern part of Spain? Do you think that the cultural history of this region affects the overall meaning of the book?

One of the main themes of the book is the unity of all religions. The reader sees an equivalence between the beliefs of a Christian such as Santiago and a Muslim such as the shopkeeper. For this reason, the geography of southern Spain is very important, since it is both spatially and cultural linked to North Africa. This is also highlighted by the repeated references to "the invaders" - a reference to the Moorish domination of the Iberian peninsula. Santiago sees these figures as predominantly negative in the beginning of the story, but modifies his views toward the end. The location of the story allows for a sub-theme of tolerance and understanding.

Fatima, Santiago's love interest, defines herself by her resignation to and support of Santiago's quest. What do you think the narrative is trying to say about the role of women or the role of love in general?

Pursuing one's love interests as well as one's personal desires can often present a conflict. In The Alchemist , though, this conflict is alleviated by the fact that the two things need not be mutually exclusive. The primary purpose of one's life is one's Personal Legend. Once one identifies that, identifying true love is a relatively simple matter. True love is that love which does not get in the way of pursuing the Personal Legend. We must conclude, then, that love, although a powerful force in The Alchemist , is not primary. It is secondary to the Personal Legend. In the case of Fatima, she recognizes that Santiago must complete his mission or else he will not be living up to his potential. While this seems to relegate her to a supporting role, it is suggested that this is what she truly wants, and what is accepted by her community. Thus, in a way, she is also fulfilled.

While Santiago's quest yields significant spiritual insights, its original motive is monetary gain. What is the narrative of The Alchemist trying to say about the relationship between material wealth and spirituality?

The Alchemist suggests that the line between spiritual treasure and material treasure is not that fixed. While the relationship between the gold that Santiago finds and the spiritual discoveries he makes is largely metaphorical, the reader does see that the most important thing is not what you want, but just that you want that thing with all of your heart. In Santiago's case, that happens to be treasure. In the scheme of The Alchemist one can have both material and spiritual wealth.

The Alchemist is clearly a novel about spiritual growth. Do you think that its message is at odds with organized religion?

The novel espouses a kind of ecumenicist religion, wherein all religions are–at their core–one. The central ideas which bind these religions, Christianity and Islam in the case of the book, are a monotheistic God and the fact that that God has a certain fate determined for each person. The novel is also pantheist, in that each person's personal soul is part of the Soul of the World (a term which is interchangeable with God in this sense). God is not separate from us, but is rather the conjoined souls of all existence. The novel does not expressly go against organized religions in this sense, but it does show a lack of emphasis on certain elements of organized religion (such as ritual, hierarchy, etc.).

Tradition plays a major role in Santiago's personal life and in the life of the people he meets in his travels. Describe the different viewpoints that the novel presents on tradition.

There are two very different views of tradition put forth in The Alchemist . The novel begins with Santiago leaving his traditional home and the role that his family has chosen for him–the priesthood–in order to pursue his treasure. This seems to suggest that one's own Personal Legend is more important than tradition. On the other hand, the tribes in the desert repeatedly fall back on what they simply refer to as "The Tradition." This is a body of knowledge which tells them when to go to war, what visions to trust, etc. Thus we see here a culture that values tradition highly.

When Santiago is lost and alone in Tangiers, the owner of the crystal shop offers him a position at his shop. What does Santiago learn from his time at the crystal shop?

The owner of the crystal shop teaches Santiago that one of the principle things which endangers the pursuit of a dream is one's own fear of achieving it. The crystal shop owner wants to go to Mecca, but also fears that if he does so he might lose his reason for living. Up until that point, Santiago has only been acquainted with exterior interference with achieving one's dreams, such as being robbed.

Although Melchizedek plays a major role in Santiago's decision to continue in search of his treasure, he only appears once in the book. Does he have any connection with the other characters that appear in the book?

While Melchizedek only appears once in The Alchemist he does prefigure some of the other characters in the story. He explicitly tells Santiago that he sometimes appears as other things besides the King of Salem. For example, he tells Santiago a story wherein he appears as a stone. Santiago also recognizes elements of Melchizedek's personality and philosophy in other characters, such as the shopkeeper and the Alchemist.

How do you think the style of The Alchemist affects its meaning?

The novel is written in a very plain style, using short declarative sentences and few modifiers such as adjectives and adverbs. The book also makes wide use capitalized terminology and magical situations such as visions and communication with the Wind, Desert, etc. These combined factors make the didactic thrust of the story apparent. By simplifying the psychology of the characters and featuring characters with no names (the Englishman, the Alchemist, etc.), the story takes on a more universal appeal.

Does the fact that Paulo Coelho is Brazilian affect the meaning of the novel in any way?

The Andalusia and Africa of Santiago have very little to do with historical reality. While this can be dismissed as a lack of realism on Coelho's part, it might also be due to the fact that, since Coelho is not Spanish, he is able to approach the subject matter without being encumbered by material reality. As an outsider, Coelho is able to write not about what life in Spain and Africa is like, but what it could be like.

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The Alchemist (Coelho) Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for The Alchemist (Coelho) is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

how are the two locations different in regards to food/drink, religion, customs, etc.?

Which specific locations are you referring to?

Earlier in the story, the alchemist told Santiago"when you possess great treasures within you, and try to tell others of them, seldom are you believed". At the end of the story, what did he do to find his treasure?

Santiago digs a hole at the base of the tree where he had had his first dream. Sure enough, he finds a trunk full of gold–enough for him and Fatima to live happily for a long time.

According to the book, is it possible to live a fulfilling life without ever achieving one’s Personal Legend? Why or why not?

This is very much a perspective question. It would be possible to have a good life but the complete fulfillment would not be there. The crystal merchant, for example, lived a good life but not one that was fulfilled.

Study Guide for The Alchemist (Coelho)

The Alchemist is a modern fable by Paulo Coelho. The Alchemist study guide contains a biography of author Paulo Coelho, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

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Essays for The Alchemist (Coelho)

The Alchemist essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of The Alchemist written by Paulo Coelho.

The Importance of Religion and Spirituality in The Alchemist
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"the alchemist": the imagery used in coelho's book.

Introduction ‘The Alchemist’, a book from Paulo Coelho, creates a very set mindset for the reader; and that is ‘new ways of thinking’. He creates and brings distinct characters to life through his personal experiences, like the hardship he went through trying to publish his...

Imagery in Literature
The Alchemist

Following Dreams: With Special Reference To Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist

Dreams are aspirations that reflect a human’s wants and desires in life. Living one’s dreams add more meaning to life. It helps to achieve the impossible and helps to know that failure is a part of success. Dedication and hard work are the two things...

Having A Goal In Life: The Alchemist By Paulo Coelho

In The Alchemist, Paulo Coelho argues that individuals should pursue personal legends to live a satisfying life. The author's idea is caused by the belief that a singular life assists an individual to attain their goals by working hard. Accordingly, people evolve in a continuous...

The Theme of Personal Legend in Fiction: A Walk to Remember and The Alchemist

Whether you want it or not, everyone has a purpose in life. According to the Oxford dictionary, the definition of “purpose” is “the thing that something is supposed to achieve”. In other words, it is the one thing you have always knew you wanted to...

A Walk to Remember

The Soncept of a Personal Legend in The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

In The Alchemist, Paulo Coelho argues that individuals should pursue personal legends to live a satisfying life. The author's idea os caused from the belief that a singular life assists individual to attain their goals by working hard. Accordingly, people evolve in a continuous process...

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Symbolism in Philosophical Novel The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Can you spot any of these common symbols in your novel? What might they symbolize? In The Alchemist, sheep are one of the main symbols throughout the book. Santiago’s sheep symbolize the characters in the novel who are blind to their personal legends. Santiago loves...

Hope and Destiny in Philosophical Book The Alchemist

The Alchemist is a novel which was written by Paulo Coelho and he is from Brazil. It was first published in 1988 in Portugal language. It became bestseller book internationally. Again it was republished in 1993 in English language. His parents want to make him...

Analysis of "The Alchemist" Through the Moral-Philosophical Approach

Literature is a powerful tool that serves as moral guidance and fosters ethics and virtues. For centuries, philosophers have said that the largest function of literature is to teach morality and to reveal important philosophical issues. Roman poet Horace for instance, says that literature should...

Best topics on The Alchemist

1. “The Alchemist”: The Imagery Used In Coelho’s Book

2. Following Dreams: With Special Reference To Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist

3. Having A Goal In Life: The Alchemist By Paulo Coelho

4. The Theme of Personal Legend in Fiction: A Walk to Remember and The Alchemist

5. The Soncept of a Personal Legend in The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

6. Symbolism in Philosophical Novel The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

7. Hope and Destiny in Philosophical Book The Alchemist

8. Analysis of “The Alchemist” Through the Moral-Philosophical Approach

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The Alchemist - Essay Examples And Topic Ideas For Free

The Alchemist is a novel by Brazilian author Paulo Coelho that explores themes of personal growth, destiny, and spirituality. Essays can delve into the novel’s symbolism, allegory, character development, and its exploration of philosophical or spiritual themes. A vast selection of complimentary essay illustrations pertaining to The Alchemist you can find in Papersowl database. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

“The Alchemist” Personal Legend

In The Alchemist, Coelho talks about the importance of the "Personal Legend", that is, the path that each person should take to achieve the greatest happiness. In the book, a young shepherd boy, named Santiago is sent on a journey to find his own Personal Legend. On his journey he deals with frustration, devastation, hope, love, confusion, learning all along the way. From the people he meets to the scenarios he must adapt to, the boy persists on his journey […]

Literary Devices in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

In the opening of The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, Coelho uses numerous stylistic techniques to not only inspire his readers but also to instill his message through thematic elements. Through the character interactions, symbols, and allusions presented in the first few pages of this novel, Coelho is able to present various lessons to the reader. To explain, a significant technique of Coelho is his use of style and language. The novel is told in past tense, which provides him with […]

Hero’s Journey in “The Alchemist”

In The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, we read the story about a boy named Santiago who has dreams and visions about finding this treasure. The Alchemist can come across as a mythic, universally applicable story due to the use of the Hero's Journey hidden throughout the book and all the stylistic strategies given. The book portrays an idea to follow your dreams, and listen to your heart which is exactly what Santiago does. The first stage of the Hero's journey […]

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The Monomyth in “The Alchemist”

The Alchemist, a novel written in 1988 by the author Paulo Coelho, whom received the Crystal Award by the World Economic Forum and France. He is known for other major works such as Aleph and Eleven Minutes. The Alchemist is his most famous work, which is one of the most translated works. The story take place in Spain as a young shepherd boy named Santiago start his search for finding his personal legend after having a dream about a treasure […]

Journey of a Young Shepherd Boy Santiago in “The Alchemist”

In the novel The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho shows the journey of a young shepherd boy named Santiago who is determined to fulfill his Personal Legend, which is to find a hidden treasure. Learning life lessons along the way Santiago starts realizes the importance of listening to his heart. The theme of the book is to listen to one's heart and not be afraid to take risks. In The Alchemist the author shows those who chose to follow their dreams […]

The Alchemist and the Pilgrimage by Paulo Coelho

Literature is the mirror of the society. Literature writers always reflect the social, economic, political and cultural realities in the society and captures the same is their artistic expressions. It is on this basis the literature is the mirror of the society. Paulo Coelho in the novel The Alchemist and The Pilgrimage fundamentally offers inspiration to people to always follow their dream regardless of the circumstances that they go through. The Alchemist and The Pilgrimage are a compelling novels by […]

The Alchemist Book Review

Often in works of literature, characters gain wisdom through experience. The novel The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is about a shepherd named Santiago. Santiago is not an ordinary shepherd, he reads regularly, which surprises the merchant's daughter. Santiago enjoys his life as a shepherd not only because it allows him to travel, but also because he loves his sheep. Santiago notices his flock's ability to find contentment through food and water alone, and he almost envies the fact that they […]

The Alchemist: Santiago

The Alchemist tells the tale of Santiago, a young shepherd in search of his personal legend. Santiago did not know what the future entailed and at first, did not know he would travel far to reach ""his"" legend, however, it is the relationships with strangers that shaped him and helped him to ""his"" legend. Coelho introduced characters such as the king, the alchemist, and Santiago's heart to positively affect Santiago and transform him. These relationships are a major focus for […]

Fantasy Book “The Alchemist”

The Alchemist is a fantasy book series that takes place in the twenty-first century in America. The first pages of the book introduce us to Josh and Sophia Newman who are twins. Josh works at a bookshop with Nick Flemming who is actually an immortal alchemist named Nicholas Flamel who is hiding from Dr. John Dee who is also immortal and who was once his apprentice. One day Dee finds Flamel and he takes his wife and the codex which […]

The Alchemist’s Wisdom and its Universal Themes

Paulo Coelho's opus "The Alchemist" has mesmerized readers globally, transcending its identity as merely a narrative to become a compendium for navigating existence, brimming with sagacity and profound insights into the human psyche. This extraordinary chronicle of Santiago, a youthful Andalusian shepherd embarking on a odyssey to unearth his Personal Legend, proffers themes of profound significance that strike a chord with humanity at large. Through Santiago's expedition, Coelho delves into the essence of apprehending one's fate, the pivotality of heeding […]

Santiago’s Quest for the Personal Legend in the Alchemist

Within Paulo Coelho's mesmerizing tome, "The Alchemist," voyagers embark alongside Santiago, a youthful Andalusian shepherd, as he quests for treasures of cosmic magnitude. Yet, Santiago's odyssey transcends mere material wealth; it epitomizes an introspective pilgrimage toward self-realization and the comprehension of his Personal Legend—the singular path ordained for each soul to attain ultimate fulfillment. Santiago's odyssey commences with a vision, a dream wherein he glimpses the untold riches awaiting him at the Egyptian pyramids, igniting a fervent yearning to transcend […]


Originally published :	1988
Author :	Paulo Coelho
Pages :	163 pp (first English edition, hardcover), 208 pages (25th Anniversary Edition)
Genre :	Quest, adventure, fantasy
Language :	Portuguese
Followed by :	Brida (1990)
Characters :	The Coptic Monk, The Continental Op

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How To Write an Essay About The Alchemist

Understanding 'the alchemist' by paulo coelho.

Before writing an essay on 'The Alchemist,' it's essential to thoroughly understand the novel. 'The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho is a philosophical story about Santiago, a young Andalusian shepherd in his journey to Egypt, after having a recurring dream of finding treasure there. Delve into the themes of the novel such as following one's dreams, the interconnectedness of all things, and the importance of seeking one's own path. Grasping these themes is crucial as they form the backbone of your essay and give depth to your analysis.

Developing a Clear Thesis

The next step is to develop a clear and concise thesis statement for your essay. This statement should reflect your unique interpretation or perspective on the novel. Whether you focus on how the story reflects the journey of self-discovery, the role of destiny and free will, or the symbolism of the characters and events, your thesis should guide the direction of your essay and provide a central argument for your readers to consider.

Gathering Textual Evidence

An essay about 'The Alchemist' should include detailed textual evidence to support your thesis. This involves close reading of the novel to identify significant quotes, events, and characters that align with your thesis. For instance, if you're exploring the theme of personal legend, you might analyze Santiago's decisions and the obstacles he faces. By providing specific examples from the text, you can create a more convincing and well-supported argument.

Analyzing and Interpreting the Novel

In this section, you should analyze and interpret the evidence you have collected, explaining how it supports your thesis. This is where you delve deeper into the themes, characters, and symbolism of 'The Alchemist'. Discuss Coelho's writing style, the significance of the novel's setting, and its philosophical underpinnings. Your analysis should demonstrate a deep understanding of the novel and provide a unique perspective on its meaning and significance.

Concluding Your Essay

Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points of your analysis and restating your thesis. Your conclusion should bring together your interpretations and insights, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of your perspective on 'The Alchemist'. This is also an opportunity to reflect on the broader implications of the novel, such as its relevance in today's world or its contribution to literature.

Final Touches: Review and Editing

After completing your essay, it's important to review and edit your work. Ensure that your arguments are clearly articulated and supported by textual evidence. Check for grammatical errors and ensure that your essay flows logically. You might also seek feedback from peers or instructors to refine your essay further. A well-written essay will not only showcase your understanding of 'The Alchemist' but also your ability to engage critically with literary texts.

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The Alchemist

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1. Santiago’s journey begins with a dream.

What role do dreams and/or omens play in Santiago’s journey? ( topic sentence )
Provide 3 examples from the text in which Santiago mentions or encounters a dream or omen.
In your concluding sentence or sentences, link your examples back to Santiago’s development as a character and the theme of Dreams and Omens.

2. Santiago begins as a shepherd and ultimately returns home as a very different person.

What do sheep symbolize in this novel? ( topic sentence )
Using at least 3 examples from the text, think about what role sheep play in Santiago’s journey.
In your conclusion, connect your argument back to Santiago’s transformation over the course of the novel.

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The Alchemist Analysis Essay

Paulo Coelho, author of The Alchemist, defines a personal legend as “… what you have always wanted to accomplish.” He elaborates, stating, “Everyone, when they are young, knows what their Personal Legend is. At that point in their lives, everything is clear and everything is possible.”

He continues to explain that the desire to accomplish this personal legend decreases, as people begin to oppose the person’s inclination to succeed. Santiago, the main protagonist, is led through many emotional and physical trials to fulfill his personal legend. Through these physical, mental, and emotional challenges, Santiago proves his adaptability towards unexpected circumstances.

As the story begins, Santiago is introduced as a shepherd from Andalusia, who begins to experience a recurring dream while leading his sheep through the southern towns of Spain: to travel to the Egyptian Pyramids, where he will find a hidden treasure. His adaptability is first defined as he travels to Tarifa., when he meets a woman that reads dreams: requesting one tenth of the treasure he finds in Egypt, a king speaking of the soul of the universe and personal legends: demanding one tenth of Santiago’s flock, and a crystal merchant: whom Santiago teaches to sell tea in his crystal glasses, earning Santiago enough pay to travel to the Pyramids.

The dream interpreter tells Santiago to go to the Pyramids, and the king Melchizedek tells him why – it is his Personal Legend, his destiny, if he lets the universe and its signs guide him. The crystal merchant, however, teaches Santiago to be wary of his trust towards strangers, and gives him the insight and courage to begin his travels towards Egypt. Santiago is forced to adapt to these situations, proving his adaptability, as he is placed in a new environment and surrounded by people who may or may not be looking out for his best interest.

Waiting for the caravan to Al-Fayoum, Santiago meets an Englishman in search of the Alchemist. The Englishman tells Santiago what he’s read: there is an individual language that every living thing speaks, although it is spoken without words, a language of action propelled by emotion: the same lesson Santiago learned from his sheep, and his experiences in Tarifa. Although Santiago does not understand who the Alchemist is, he does understand desire, and he understands that the Englishman is expressing it in his knowledge of alchemy and the universe.

At the caravan site, the Englishman begins to explain to Santiago the importance of knowing that nothing is a coincidence. However, Santiago already knows the lessons the Englishman is attempting to teach him.“The boy knew what he was going to describe, though: the mysterious chain that links one thing to another, the same chain that caused him to become a shepherd, that had caused his recurring dream, that had brought him to a city near Africa, to find a king, and to be robbed in order to meet a crystal merchant.”

The caravan trip shows Santiago more of the universal language. Each person following the caravan is headed towards the same compass point, the same destination, joined by hunger, fear, and yearning: be it for travel, for refuge, or for those they love and miss. If Santiago was not able to adapt to the harsh conditions in the desert, of the caravan trip itself, he would not have reached Al-Fayoum: he would not have reached his treasure. Reaching Al-Fayoum, Santiago meets a woman named Fatima, as well as the Alchemist. His first encounter with the Alchemist shows him that he has been correct to follow the path of his Personal Legend.

Although the information taught to him over his travels is confusing to Santiago, he believes it, and changes his thinking understand more of the world. With his understanding of the universal language, of the signs and signals, Santiago evades death. The Alchemist begins meeting with Santiago, teaching him more about the Soul of the World, saying, “The wise men understood that this natural world is only an image and a copy of paradise. The existence of this world is simply a guarantee that there exists a world that is perfect. God created the world so that, through its visible objects, men could understand his spiritual teachings and the marvels of his wisdom.”

Santiago uses his knowledge to accomplish many feats of physical and mental exertion: leading himself to the Egyptian Pyramids. Upon reaching his long strived-for goal, he discovers another sign, another path, pushing him towards the true destination of his treasure. He fights through each conflict, his passion to accomplish his Personal Legend stronger than his fear of failing. If Santiago hadn’t had an adaptable attitude towards each new situation, he would not have followed the right path to his treasure. His adaptability is the reigning factor in Santiago’s journey, leading him through each stressful and confusing new encounter.

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — The Alchemist — Metaphors In The Alchemist

Metaphors in The Alchemist

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Published: Mar 13, 2024

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Home / Essay Samples / Literature / Books / The Alchemist

The Alchemist Essay Examples

Conflict between love and personal dreamsof in "the alchemist".

The Alchemist' by Paulo Coelho is an inspirational story of Santiago, a youthful Spanish shepherd in the rolling hills of Andalusia. The boy has deep attachment with his flock but realizing that they are devoid of aesthetic sense and appreciation for nature which he beholds,...

Following Dreams: with Special Reference to Paulo Coelho’s the Alchemist

Dreams are aspirations which reflect a human’s wants and desires in life. Living one’s dreams add more meaning to life. It helps to achieve the impossible and helps to know that failure is a part of success. Dedication and hard work are the two things...

Reading Reflection on the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist is a novel written by an anonymous third person omniscient, we know this as the narrator always refers to the characters as she, he or they, “they come in search of new things”. Throughout the novel the narrator focuses mainly on Santiago, but...

Plot Summary of the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

This story is based on a young sheepherder named Santiago, who feels very restless having a recurring dream. He has a dream every time he sleeps under a sycamore tree that grows in the ruins of a church. During the dream, a child tells him...

A Theme of Fulfilling One’s Dream in the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

In life some things come and go, whether it be people or even emotions, not everything is permanent. In The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, the main character Santiago, who is portrayed as a courageous boy sets out from his home country to the Egyptian deserts...

The Twins of Legend in the Alchemist by Michael Scott

The Alchemist is the first part in the fantasy series “The Secrets of the Immortal Nicolas Flamel” written by the Irish author Michael Scott. Scott started off his writing career by dealing rare and antique books across Ireland and has since written over 100 books....

The Role of Desert in the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Torrid heat, cutting wind, freezing cold nights, gritty sand, are all characteristics of the desert and when you experience all of these there is only one thing that comes to mind to describe it, misery. Deserts are amongst one of the most popular settings in...

Personal Legend in the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Originally published in 1988, The Alchemist was written by the world renowned and best-selling author Paulo Coelho. Being an allegorical novel, the author writes a story about a young shepherd from Andalusia who is on a journey to the pyramids in Egypt. His goal is...

A Comparative Examination of Tropes Between the Princess Bride and the Alchemist

The Alchemist, written by Paulo Coelho, and The Princess Bride, directed by Rob Reiner, both epitomize the function of crossing the threshold and the interference of supernatural intervention in aiding the hero to resiliently continue through their journey in order to have a fulfilled life....

Destiny is Inescapable and Unchangeable: Analysis of the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

The world is Spiritual. Most people believe to some extent of an external power or force, whether that be God, a ghost or even destiny. For example, Muslims believe in Allah, Christians believe in Jesus, Jewish people believe in God. If you boil it all...

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About The Alchemist

Paulo Coelho

Quest, adventure, fantasy

The Alchemist is a classic novel in which a boy named Santiago embarks on a journey seeking treasure in the Egyptian pyramids after having a recurring dream about it and on the way meets mentors, falls in love, and most importantly, learns the true importance of who he is and how to improve himself.

In the novel, even alchemy, the central symbol of the book, entails coaxing metal to achieve its own Personal Legend to turn into gold. As a result, the idea that all individuals should live in the singular pursuit of their individual dreams emerges as the primary theme of The Alchemist.

Santiago, The Alchemist, Melchizedek, the Crystal Merchant, Fatima.

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