Characters
Who is the protagonist of The Alchemist?
Santiago
What object does Santiago sell at the beginning of the novel?
His sheep
Where does Santiago meet the old king?
In a town square while reading a book
| Finish the quote: “When you want something, all the ___ conspires in helping you to achieve it.”
universe
What is a “Personal Legend”?
One’s destiny or life’s purpose
Who is the mysterious old man who claims to be a king?
Melchizedek
What does Melchizedek give Santiago to help guide him?
two stones
What continent does Santiago travel to after leaving Spain?
Africa
Who says: “It’s the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting”?
Narrator, reflecting Santiago's thoughts
What theme is represented when Santiago chooses to sell his sheep?
Pursuit of one’s dreams/Personal Legend
Who gives Santiago gold coins to pursue his dream?
His father
What is Santiago's recurring dream about?
A treasure buried near the pyramids of Egypt
What makes Santiago lose hope soon after arriving in Tangier?
He gets robbed
What does the old king ask for in exchange for telling Santiago about his Personal Legend?
One-tenth of his flock
What does the crystal merchant represent in contrast to Santiago?
Fear of change vs. courage to dream
Who tricks Santiago and steals his money in Tangier?
A "friendly" boy who offers to be a guide
What item in the crystal shop becomes a symbol of change and risk?
Serving tea in crystal glasses
Why does the crystal merchant hesitate to change?
He fears failure and prefers comfort over dreams
Who says: “I’m afraid that if my dream is realized, I’ll have no reason to go on living”?
Crystal merchant
What theme is shown when Santiago learns from bad experiences (like being robbed)
Growth through adversity
Who helps Santiago grow and learn by hiring him to work in his shop?
The crystal merchant
What do Urim and Thummim symbolize?
Guidance and decision-making
What motivates Santiago to keep going after earning money at the crystal shop?
A sense of purpose and his dream of finding the treasure
What is the name of the universal language that Santiago begins to understand?
The Language of the World
What is the main lesson Santiago learns by page 85?
Following your dream takes risk, but it’s worth it