When Santiago finally meets the alchemist at the oasis, the wise man doesn't exactly give him a warm hug. In fact, he draws a sword and points it at poor unarmed Santiago. The whole thing reminds Santiago of "the image of Santiago Matamoros, mounted on his white horse, with the infidels beneath his hooves.
Why does Santiago leave the oasis in the alchemist?
The Alchemist tells Santiago that if he completely abandons his own pursuits to stay with Fatima, he will ultimately find life to become unfulfilling. Therefore, and with Fatima's blessing, Santiago leaves the Oasis. Santiago's intense conversation with the Sun shapes his view as well. Here he is nearing the completion of his journey.
What does The Alchemist say about Santiago and Fatima?
The alchemist says Fatima understands that Santiago needs to complete his Personal Legend. Santiago asks the alchemist what would happen if he stayed in Al-Fayoum. The alchemist explains that Santiago would have enough money to buy many sheep and camels, and that he would marry Fatima.
What is Santiago's greatest spiritual advancement in the alchemist?
His greatest spiritual advancement, however, comes after he meets the alchemist, who helps him to understand himself and to read the omens in his environment. Santiago ultimately learns to communicate with the wind and the sun and the Hand That Wrote All, a force evidently synonymous with God or Allah.
Why can’t the chieftains meet the alchemist?
In fact, as the old man that Santiago speaks to explains, the chieftains can’t even meet with the alchemist unless he consents. Like Melchizedek, the alchemist appears to possess magical powers. He knows in advance that an apprentice will arrive and has supposedly lived for much longer than a typical human lifespan.
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What happens to Santiago in the alchemist?
Eventually, two refugees from the tribal wars approach and yank Santiago from the hole. They take his gold, and assuming Santiago digs toward more gold, force him to keep digging until morning. When Santiago finds nothing, they beat him until he nearly dies.
When did Santiago meet the alchemist?
In section 9 of ''The Alchemist'' by Paulo Coelho, the people of the oasis face armed soldiers from the desert, and Santiago meets the alchemist in Al-Fayoum oasis.
Who all does Santiago meet in the alchemist?
Santiago meets Melchizedek, an old king who tells him to follow his Personal Legend. He sells his sheep and uses the money to go to Africa and is promptly robbed in Tangier. Santiago works for a year in a glass shop until he has the money to cross the Sahara.
How does the alchemist affect Santiago's journey?
As Santiago continues his journey with the alchemist, he learns several new lessons about himself and his abilities. First, the alchemist explains that each person's heart emerges from the Soul of the World. Because Santiago's heart connects him to the Soul of the World, Santiago must learn to listen to it properly.
How does the alchemist end?
The Alchemist ends with the end of Santiago's journey across the sea and sands, right back where he started several years before, dreaming under a sycamore tree. Or does it? The last line of the novel, "'I'm coming, Fatima,' he said" (Epilogue. 13) shows us that Santiago's not ready to stop traveling.
Why does the alchemist choose Santiago?
In the world of the book, all pursuits resemble one another in that they involve perfecting a Personal Legend and discovering the Soul of the Word. Thus, even though the Englishman seems like the more appropriate pupil, the alchemist chooses Santiago because he is the more advanced student of the Language of the World.
What is most important to Santiago in The Alchemist?
His greatest spiritual advancement, however, comes after he meets the alchemist, who helps him to understand himself and to read the omens in his environment. Santiago ultimately learns to communicate with the wind and the sun and the Hand That Wrote All, a force evidently synonymous with God or Allah.
Who robbed Santiago in The Alchemist?
When the young man robs Santiago, Santiago realizes that he must readjust his perspective on his surroundings. Notably, Santiago lost track of the young man while admiring a sword that he planned to buy upon his return.
Who is the best character in The Alchemist?
Aside from Santiago himself, Melchizedek is the most important character in The Alchemist.
Why did the alchemist leave Santiago alone?
If Santiago hadn't learned anything or faced difficulties throughout his journey his treasure wouldn't have the same value. At the very end of the journey whey does the Alchemist leave Santiago alone? It was because everyone's journey is an individual one; no one can help you realize your dreams.
What challenges did Santiago Face in the alchemist?
Santiago encountered a lot of challenges like crossing the desert, being in a war and turning himself into the wind. He learned the different levels of fear; fearing fear, being in fear, and overcoming fear. In the end, he overcomes the fear, challenges, and tasks to reveal his treasure.
What was the purpose of Santiago's journey?
Santiago journey had three main part, the first one was he had to overcome challenges such as getting robbed several times. The next one was meeting new people including his one true love. And the third one was learning more about himself, such as his Personal Legend.
How is Santiago introduced in The Alchemist?
Santiago is a boy who is a shepherd. In the beginning of the story, he is introduced by him trying to find a place to sleep that night. The geographical setting at the beginning of the novel is an abandoned church in Andalusia. Santiago meets an old man in the village.
Where was Santiago at the start in The Alchemist?
AndalusiaSantiago Shepherd boy, the protagonist of The Alchemist. He travels from Andalusia in southern Spain to the Egyptian pyramids in search of hidden treasure, learning life lessons along the way.
Where does Santiago come from in The Alchemist?
Santiago, a shepherd boy from a small Andalusian town, is the protagonist of The Alchemist. He is determined, headstrong, and curious to learn all he can about the world.
How does Santiago develop in The Alchemist?
Santiago changes throughout The Alchemist by understanding more about what things mean to people. He is changed by Fatima to understand how people's love can be more valuable than treasure, and he is changed by the alchemist to understand how he is one with the world.
What does Santiago tell the Alchemist?
Santiago tells the alchemist that the Englishman needs his help, but the alchemist replies that the Englishman has other things to do first. The alchemist says he needs to help direct Santiago to the treasure he seeks. Santiago argues that he already has his treasure with his camel, money, and Fatima. The alchemist replies that Santiago has ...
Why is it important that the Alchemist chooses Santiago?
The alchemist’s choice to make Santiago his protégé marks an important point in Santiago’s journey, and the fact that the alchemist chooses Santiago, despite the fact that Santiago is not interested in alchemy, reiterates the notion that all things are one to people in touch with the Soul of the World.
What does the horseman say to Santiago?
The horseman asks who dared read the flight of the hawks. Santiago says he did and that he was able to see into the Soul of the World. The horseman asks Santiago why he defies Allah’s will, and Santiago replies that Allah willed his vision to occur. The horseman withdraws his sword and asks why Santiago is in the desert. When Santiago says he is following his Personal Legend, the horseman explains he needed to test Santiago’s courage, and that Santiago must not give up on his goal. The horseman tells Santiago to find him the next day after sunset if he survives the ensuing battle. Santiago asks the horseman where he lives, and the horseman simply points south before riding away. We learn that the mysterious horseman is the alchemist.
Why does the horseman withdraw his sword?
The horseman withdraws his sword and asks why Santiago is in the desert. When Santiago says he is following his Personal Legend, the horseman explains he needed to test Santiago’s courage, and that Santiago must not give up on his goal.
What does Santiago argue about the pyramids?
Santiago argues that he already has his treasure, including his money and Fatima, but the alchemist points out that none of these things come from the pyramids. Again, Santiago hesitates briefly to pursue his dream because he feels satisfied with the wealth he has. The alchemist, however, pushes him forward.
Why did the chieftains question the commander about why he broke with tradition and attacked Al-Fayoum?
The chieftains question the commander about why he broke with tradition and attacked Al-Fayoum, and the commander replies that his men were starving and needed to take the oasis to continue with the war. The chieftains express pity, but condemns the commander to death by hanging.
Why does Santiago feel no fear?
Initially, Santiago thinks the man on the horse may kill him, but he feels no fear because he would die in pursuit of his Personal Legend. Since he does not worry about death, Santiago confidently tells the man that he stands behind his vision. The man appears impressed.
What does the Alchemist tell Santiago?
The alchemist mounts his own horse and puts a falcon on his shoulder. He tells Santiago to lead him to where there is life in the desert. Santiago feels confused, but he understands what to do when the alchemist tells him that life attracts life. He gallops into the desert until his horse slows down. He tells the alchemist life exists ...
Why does Santiago feel frustrated with the Alchemist?
Santiago feels frustrated that the alchemist didn’t teach him anything, but the alchemist says Santiago should have learned through actions. Santiago asks him why he is an alchemist, and the alchemist explains he learned the practice from his grandfather, when alchemy was simpler.
How does the Alchemist lead Santiago through the desert?
The alchemist leads the boy through the desert with the falcon on his shoulder. During their stops, the falcon flies off and returns with rabbits or birds to eat. They travel for a week, speaking little. On the seventh day, the alchemist sets up camp early and tells Santiago his journey is almost finished. Santiago feels frustrated that the alchemist didn’t teach him anything, but the alchemist says Santiago should have learned through actions. Santiago asks him why he is an alchemist, and the alchemist explains he learned the practice from his grandfather, when alchemy was simpler. He says men complicated alchemy by writing books about it. Previously, alchemists only needed the Emerald Tablet. Santiago asks what the tablet says, and the alchemist replies that one can’t understand it through reason since it provides a passage to the Soul of the World. The alchemist encourages Santiago to immerse himself in the desert and listen to his heart so he can also gain an understanding of the Soul of the World.
What does the alchemist say about Fatima?
The alchemist says Fatima understands that Santiago needs to complete his Personal Legend. Santiago asks the alchemist what would happen if he stayed in Al-Fayoum. The alchemist explains that Santiago would have enough money to buy many sheep and camels, and that he would marry Fatima. Santiago and Fatima would be happy for one year, but ...
What happens if Santiago does not pursue his personal legend?
According to the alchemist, if Santiago does not pursue his Personal Legend, his relationship with Fatima will eventually deteriorate as she begins to feel he gave up his dream for her and he begins to regret his decision. Moreover, Santiago will gradually lose touch with the Soul of the World.
What did the alchemist consider Santiago's success?
Santiago quickly finds the cobra, and the alchemist considers Santiago’s success as a sign of Santiago’s ability to understand the Language of the World. Notably, as Santiago gets better at performing these feats, he does not pray or communicate directly with spirits.
Who would dismiss Santiago as their counselor?
The tribal chieftains would dismiss Santiago as their counselor, and Santiago would live the rest of his life in regret. The alchemist’s story convinces Santiago. The pair returns to Al-Fayoum for one night and Santiago tells Fatima he is leaving, but that he still loves her and he will return.
What does Santiago tell him about the pyramids?
Santiago tells him he needs to get to the Pyramids and offers to pay him to serve as a guide . The young man explains that the route across the Sahara desert is dangerous, and Santiago needs to show that he has enough money to make the trip.
Why didn't Santiago clean his mind?
When Santiago finishes, the crystal merchant takes him to a café. He explains that Santiago didn’t need to clean, because the Koran orders him to feed the hungry. Santiago replies that they both needed to cleanse their minds of bad thoughts.
What does the crystal merchant believe?
He has not adapted to Tangier becoming a less vibrant port town because he feels scared of change. The crystal merchant’s belief in omens presents his most redeeming trait. From the very first time he sees Santiago, he decides to stop and watch him even though Santiago clearly has no money. The crystal merchant proceeds to offer Santiago a job, despite the fact his business already struggles, because he considers as omens the visitors who arrived while Santiago cleaned. Throughout The Alchemist, characters who believe in omens appear wise and prosper. Unlike materialistic characters, these characters accept the interconnectedness of Personal Legends and The Soul of the World. We also see this interconnectedness in Santiago’s run-in with the candy seller and the other merchants, who communicate in a “universal language” despite the fact that the actual languages they speak differ.
Why is Santiago called the boy?
First, it allows the reader to experience Santiago as a mysterious stranger, as the crystal merchant and other people who encounter Santiago see him. Second, it turns Santiago into a universal symbol rather than an individual character. Referring to Santiago as “the boy” makes him a mythic figure, just as Melchizedek attains mythic significance when Santiago forgets his name and starts thinking of him as “the old man.” In turn, The Alchemist acts less as a personal story about the adventures of one character and more as an allegorical fable with universal implications. This change raises the question of why Santiago ever had a name in the first place. Although no single answer emerges, it may be that readers can better identify with Santiago when he has a name and identity. Once the reader has achieved that level of sympathy, his name is no longer necessary.
What does the crystal merchant say about the crystal merchant?
The crystal merchant says it was a good omen that customers entered while Santiago cleaned and offers Santiago a job . Santiago says he will clean all the merchant’s crystal overnight in exchange for money to get to Egypt.
What is the story of Santiago in Tangier?
He worries that he can’t speak Arabic, reassuring himself only with the money in his pouch. A man of similar age and appearance as Santiago addresses him in Spanish. Santiago tells him he needs to get to the Pyramids and offers to pay him to serve as a guide. The young man explains that the route across the Sahara desert is dangerous, and Santiago needs to show that he has enough money to make the trip. The bar owner speaks angrily to the young man in Arabic, and the young man drags Santiago outside, saying the bar owner is a thief. Santiago gives the young man his money to purchase camels.
What is the significance of Santiago's first experience in Tangier?
Santiago’s initial experience in Tangier illustrates the fact that moving on from a comfortable situation can present a challenge, even if the challenge arises in the pursuit of a Personal Legend. As soon as Santiago arrives in Tangier, he feels a suspicion of the “infidel” Muslims. Tangier seems uncomfortably foreign, largely because the people behave differently than in Spain, and Santiago dislikes the place. Santiago quickly pays for these prejudices when he decides to trust the familiar, Spanish-speaking young man instead of the Arabic-speaking bartender. When the young man robs Santiago, Santiago realizes that he must readjust his perspective on his surroundings. Notably, Santiago lost track of the young man while admiring a sword that he planned to buy upon his return. By focusing on a material possession instead of his Personal Legend, Santiago lost the only wealth he had. At nightfall, Santiago laments all of his lost material possessions. He only remembers his quest when he feels Urim and Thummim and appreciates them for their symbolic value rather than their material value. Remembering the stones and Melchizedek’s words immediately renews Santiago’s commitment to his quest.
What does Santiago know about the alchemist?
When Santiago and the Englishman begin asking local residents about the alchemist, the locals react strangely, telling the pair to leave or give up.
Who does Santiago meet in the oasis?
Santiago then meets Fatima. As soon as Santiago approaches her, he notices her beauty, and he feels instantly in love with her. Once the two begin speaking, the delay at the oasis allows them to become friends, and Santiago even starts to worry that one day he will have to leave.
Why does the Englishman disappear?
The Englishman disappears to pursue the alchemist and Fatima leave s after getting water. Santiago remains where he stands, love-struck. The next day, Santiago returns to the well, hoping to see Fatima again. He finds the Englishman there as well. The Englishman explains he waited all day for the alchemist.
What does the Alchemist watch from Al-Fayoum?
The alchemist watches from Al-Fayoum as the caravan arrives. The village around Al-Fayoum buzzes with excitement, but the alchemist has seen many people come and go so he pays no attention. Omens have made the alchemist aware that someone traveling with the caravan will learn from him, and the alchemist wonders how capable his new apprentice ...
What did the Englishman ask the alchemist to do?
The Englishman explains he waited all day for the alchemist. When the alchemist finally arrived, the Englishman asked how to turn lead into gold. The alchemist only responded that he must “go and try.”.
What does Santiago tell Fatima about his personal legend?
Santiago tells Fatima about his Personal Legend which leads him to the pyramids, but he says he wants to stay in Al-Fayoum with her. One day, Fatima tells Santiago that she has been waiting for him her entire life, but insists that he continue on to Egypt after the war to pursue his Personal Legend.
What is the desert oasis in Santiago?
Al-Fayoum, a desert oasis, amazes Santiago. The place appears larger than many Spanish towns. Curious children crowd the caravan and women accost the caravan’s merchants. The camel driver tells Santiago that they are safe in Al-Fayoum. Warring tribes avoid it because mostly women and children inhabit the place.
What is the effect of every event in The Alchemist?
Just about every event in The Alchemist has the effect of shaping Santiago's outlook on life. This is a story all about changing how one sees their relationship with the world, and therefore, it is full of moments with a profound impact on our protagonist.
What does Santiago learn from his experience?
However, it is this experience that teaches him that once a Personal Legend is achieved, a person can still find another one to pursue. He learns from this experience that the pursuit of one's goals is the only real way to take an active role in achieving one's destiny.
What did the Englishman and his love of books and his inability to understand the natural world around him demonstrate to Santiago?
The Englishman and his love of books and his inability to understand the natural world around him, demonstrate to Santiago that there is more to life than man's knowledge. Santiago is unaffected by the books that the Englishman depends on; it is in noticing the omens around him that Santiago sees life differently, hears the world speaking to him, is able to avoid disaster, and is able to save himself on several occasions.
What does Santiago discover about love?
He discovers that love for someone, even deep and affectionate love, should never stand in one's way for pursuing their Personal Legend. This episode shows him that true love will endure despite whatever other tracts one's life is on. The Alchemist tells Santiago that if he completely abandons his own pursuits to stay with Fatima, he will ultimately find life to become unfulfilling. Therefore, and with Fatima's blessing, Santiago leaves the Oasis.
What happened to Santiago when he sold his sheep?
When Santiago has sold his sheep, and is preparing to travel to Egypt to see the pyramids, a young man befriends him —who ultimately steals Santiago’s money, forcing him to take stock of his life. For a time he is in a desperate state.
What does Santiago learn from the King of Salem?
When he meets the King of Salem, he learns about Personal Legends and that pursuing them brings one closer to the Soul of the World.
Does Santiago turn back on his dreams?
In such a state, he cannot move forward. Santiago cleverly convinces the crystal merchant to hire him on as a clerk, soon turning the business around, much to the merchant's delight. For a good deal of the time he works, the boy plans to make enough money to buy more sheep and return home. However, as Santiago listens to the crystal merchant who turned his back on his dreams and still regrets it—even in the face of financial success—Santiago revisits his decision to turn back. Eventually, he moves on, always getting closer to realizing his dreams.
