Characters
Big Ideas & Themes
Personal Legend
Santiago’s Journey
Symbols & Real-Life Connections
100

Who is the main character and a young shepherd searching for his purpose?

Santiago

100

What emotion is the main obstacle stopping people from living fulfilling lives in the novel?

Fear

100

What term does the novel use to describe a person’s true purpose in life?

A Personal Legend

100

What does Santiago repeatedly dream about at the start of the story?

Treasure near the pyramids

100

What setting represents uncertainty and challenge in the novel?

The desert

200

Which character encourages Santiago to follow his dreams and believe in his destiny?

The King of Salem

200

What theme shows the struggle between taking risks and choosing comfort?

Fear versus courage

200

When does a Personal Legend often get ignored or forgotten?

When fear, doubt, and other people’s expectations appear

200

From which continent does Santiago begin his journey?

Europe

200

What does the desert force characters to do?

Face their fears and desires

300

Who represents love that supports Santiago’s journey instead of holding him back?

Fatima


300

What does the novel suggest matters more than opportunity when achieving dreams?

Overcoming fear

300

What quality is required to follow a Personal Legend?

Courage

300

What major setback happens to Santiago early in his journey?

His money gets stolen

300

What does Santiago gain in the desert besides survival skills?

Confidence and understanding

400

Which character shows the regret that comes from letting fear stop you from chasing dreams?

The Crystal Merchant

400

What lesson does the novel teach about choosing the “safe option”?

It can lead to long-term regret

400

Which character follows his Personal Legend despite setbacks and fear?

Santiago

400

Where does Santiago work to rebuild his confidence and finances?

The crystal shop

400

How does the novel connect to students’ real-life choices?

Choosing between safe options and risky dreams

500

Which character relies on book knowledge and avoids learning through real-life experience?

The Englishman

500

What does the novel say fear should be used for instead of avoided?

The motivation to grow

500

What happens to people who do not follow their Personal Legend, according to the novel?

They often feel regret instead of fulfillment

500

What is Santiago’s greatest conflict throughout the novel?

His internal struggle with fear

500

According to the novel’s message, what is the real treasure?

The person you become by following your Personal Legend