Plot
Where does Santiago find work when he arrives in Tangier?
At the crystal merchant’s shop.
What does the crystal merchant confess about his dream?
He dreams of going to Mecca but will never actually go.
What do Santiago’s sheep symbolize in the story?
Comfort, routine, and the danger of living without pursuing one’s dreams.
“I’m afraid that if my dream is realized, I’ll have no reason to go on living.” Who says this?
The crystal merchant
Why does Santiago decide to work for the crystal merchant?
To earn money to continue his journey to the pyramids.
What motivates the Englishman to travel to the desert?
He wants to learn the secrets of alchemy.
What theme is reinforced through Santiago’s love for Fatima?
True love does not stop a Personal Legend but supports it.
“When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” Who reminds Santiago of this idea?
The king of Salem (Melchizedek)
What ideas does Santiago suggest that increases the crystal merchant’s business?
Selling tea in crystal glasses and building a display case for the crystal
Who does Santiago meet at the oasis who changes his journey?
Fatima, whom he falls in love with.
What recurring theme is shown in Santiago’s work with the crystal merchant?
The importance of following your Personal Legend instead of settling for comfort.
When Santiago says, “Maktub,” what does he mean?
It is written” — fate/destiny has already been planned by God.
Who does Santiago meet in the desert caravan that becomes an important friend and what do they study?
The Englishman, who studies alchemy.
What is Santiago’s first impression of the Englishman?
He thinks the Englishman is too focused on books and doesn’t observe the world.
What theme is shown by the crystal merchant’s decision not to go to Mecca?
Fear of change can prevent people from fulfilling their Personal Legend.
What does the Englishman mean when he says, “Books are written by alchemists, but the desert tells us more”?
True wisdom comes from experience, not just reading.
Why is the caravan forced to stop in the oasis?
Because tribal wars make it unsafe to continue the journey.
In what ways are Santiago and the Englishman similar, and how are they different?
Both seek their Personal Legend through learning; Santiago learns from the world around him while the Englishman relies on books.
What does the caravan symbolize during Santiago’s journey across the desert?
Faith and unity in following a path despite risk and uncertainty
Who says, “Because I don’t live in either my past or my future. I’m interested only in the present.”
Santiago