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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.
• Literary Tools in Paulo Coelho’s “The Alchemist” The use of this tool by the author is observed at the beginning of the book to create a special atmosphere. In The Alchemist, this tool is perceived as an appropriate element to add to […] We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
• 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 […]
• “Young Goodman Brown” and “The Alchemist”: Comparison Believing the traveler and following him, Goodman crosses The Threshold that separates The Special World from The Ordinary World and signifies Brown’s commitment to the adventure.
• Dreams in the Corr’s Song “Dreams” and Paulo Coelho’s Novel “The Alchemist”
• The Pursuit of Happiness in “The Alchemist”
• The Concept of Pursuing Your Dreams in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• Journey of a Young Shepherd Boy Santiago in “The Alchemist”
• The Connection of a Person to the Spiritual Realm and Nature in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• Applyiing How to Read Literature to “The Alchemist”
• Allegiance and Dedication in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• Similarities Between “The Alchemist” and “The Kite Runner”
• Confusing Themes and Spiritual Concepts in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho: The Price of Success
• The Factors of Fate and Destiny in Relation to Santiago From “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• Overcoming Problems in “The Alchemist”
• Character Analysis of Santiago in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• The Journeys of Survival in Paulo Coelho’s “The Alchemist” and Yann Martel’s “Life of Pi”
• Listening to the Heart Throughout “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• Comparison of the Characters of Hermione Granger From “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” and the Englishman From “The Alchemist”
• Comparison of Paulo Coelho’s “The Alchemist” and Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken”
• The Common Hero and His Journey in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• Character Comparison in “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee and “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• Fatima’s Definition of Love in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• Numerous Stylistic Techniques in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• The Value of Fate in “The Alchemist” and “Antigone”
• The Conflicts Which Santiago Faces in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• The Spiritual Journey and Life Lessons Depicted in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• The Role of Religion and Spirituality in “The Alchemist”
• Comparison of “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho and “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger
• The Idea of Inescapable Destiny in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• Santiago’s Life Obstacles in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• The Socially Defined Self in “The Alchemist”
• The Underlying Messages in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• Power, Wealth, and Love in “The Alchemist,” “Hedda Gabler,” “Snow Flower and the Secret Fan”
• Self-Discovery and Exploration in “The Alchemist” by Paulo
• Performing Miracles: “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• Fear of Fiction and Today by Paul Coelho’s “The Alchemist”
• Santiago and the Dream About the Egyptian Pyramids in “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho
• An Analysis of Santiago’s Meetings With the King, the Englishman, and the Alchemist in Paulo Coelho’s “The Alchemist”
• What Language Does Santiago Speak in “The Alchemist”?
• What Is the One Great Truth in “The Alchemist”?
• 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?
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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Literary Theory and Criticism

Home › Literature › Analysis of Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist

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.

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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.

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.

• About The Alchemist (Coelho)
• The Alchemist (Coelho) Summary
• The Alchemist (Coelho) Video
• Character List

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
• How Dreams and Omens Support the Theme of Interconnection
• The Importance of Dreams

Lesson Plan for The Alchemist (Coelho)

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Introduction to The Alchemist (Coelho)
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• The Alchemist (Coelho) Bibliography

Wikipedia Entries for The Alchemist (Coelho)

• Introduction
• Adaptations

The Alchemist Themes

A theme is an overarching idea that runs through a literary text in one or some parts. It makes up the major point the author wants to convey to the readers.  Themes in The Alchemist, a masterpiece of Paulo Coelho , are diverse and temporal.  The novel presents the human quest for knowledge and treasures as well as the world of dream, love, and fate in which they have to want to enter. Some of the major themes in The Alchemist have been discussed below.

Themes in The Alchemist

Dreams and Aspirations

Dreams and materializing them is one of the major themes of  The Alchemist. The story starts with Santiago having a dream to pursue and find his destiny. He dreams about finding a treasure at the foot of the pyramids in Egypt while living in Andalusian town as a shepherd. He is rather amazed at this strange dream and asks the Old Woman of Tarifa about it, who guides her that it is true. She also urges him to go on this expedition to find his destiny.

Santiago remains uncertain until he meets Melchizedek, who claims to be the king of Salem. Melchizedek also interprets his dream in the same way. In fact, both of the dream interpreters implore Santiago that he must pursue his dream. The author wants to convey that dreams are a message from the universe. In fact, the different terms used by different fortunetellers, the alchemist and the Englishman to Santiago are aspirations that come from dreams. Hence, Santiago goes to Egypt to fulfill them.

According to the conversation of the crystal merchant, everything is pre-ordained or already written. For Santiago, he means that working to gain his Personal Legend , which will bring happiness for him if it is meant to be. Santiago shows this fate when traveling through the desert and learning about the Personal Legend. When he asks the wind to blow a storm, it happens because of his faith, fate, and his Personal Legend. That is why he tells the Englishman that alchemy is not as complicated as he has made. He needs to learn it through his day to day simple existence because he wants to get the treasure from the pyramids. He knows that when he wants to get that treasure, it means that it is his destiny. Santiago firmly believes that it is pre-ordained, but at the same time, he must strive for that.

Love is another major thematic strand of this novel that runs parallel to other themes. Santiago is highly conscious of the real objective of the Egyptian pyramid and the treasure. However, he also falls in love with Fatima while staying at the oasis of the Al-Fayoum. He resolves to come back to marry her. Hence, the introduction of love at this point further makes him firm in his resolve to visit the pyramids to find the treasure. Although he feels that he should stay, Fatima urges him to follow his Personal Legend and fulfill his dream. Santiago returns to his love, and he also fulfills his Personal Legend for love.

Unity of Spirit

The Alchemist demonstrates the concept of the Soul of the World to clarify that all the religions agree about this presence of the soul. That is why the alchemist tells material elements to possess a Personal Legend and that everybody should follow their own goal. If Santiago weren’t united with the Soul and his dreams, he would not have found the treasure. In other words, his soul is also part of the Soul of the World that is God.

Self-Discovery

At first, Santiago has a dream and then its interpretation from the old gypsy woman and Melchizedek. Later, he experiences his self-discovery and leaves home, despite his father’s desire to make him a priest. Santiago chooses to live an independent life. However, his father, gypsy woman, and Melchizedek inspire him in his self-discovery and his Personal Legend. Melchizedek’s words that when a person intends upon doing something, the whole world seems to conspire to stand by him stands true in his case. He discovers it when transforming the wind into a storm to fulfill his prediction.

Wisdom and Knowledge

According to the author, true wisdom is to know how to turn lead into gold. It is a metaphor for the transformation of a shepherd into a wise person who can bring a storm as per will. This wisdom lies in knowing the Soul of the World and aligning the Personal Legend with this Universal Soul. Although Santiago does not claim to be a wise person at first, he learns.

Selfishness

Selfishness is a minor theme of the novel. Narcissus’ and the lake’s selfishness were obvious. Later it reappears in the novel through different characters in the shape of Personal Legend. As every person has his own desire to fulfill even if he comes across another person. Hence, Santiago had to remain a little selfish on his self-discovery mission. However, he returns to claim his true love for Fatima.

Santiago dreams about the treasure in the church. He abandons his religious duties and starts following his dream to achieve his Personal Legend. Besides his religious upbringing and learning to read, he doesn’t believe the written knowledge is useful. This religious debate entails that religion is important, but the experience of the world is more important to lead a successful life.

Spirituality

The ideas of the Soul of the World, Personal Legends, and mysticism point to the thematic strand of spirituality that runs parallel to other themes in the novel. In fact, the entire adventurous quest of Santiago is a spiritual quest to discover his soul following his dreams. That is why he declares that “everything on the face of the earth had a soul”. Here, the Soul of the world could be God.

Although omens play an important role in our lives, in the novel, they have a specific role. They are central to their actions. When Melchizedek gives Santiago two precious stones, he is actually handing him the power to see good or bad omens and act accordingly. That is why Santiago can understand them and interpret the fight of hawks in the desert as a bad omen. After that, he witnesses the attack of an opposing tribe, which proves true.

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The Alchemist Essays

The Alchemist is a famous writing issued for the first time in Greece in 1988 and is the most well- known creation of famous writer Paulo Coelho. It is a symbolical writing which wants the reader pursues his dreams. (Stewart 2007) Issued in original in 1988, The Alchemist was converted into 56...

A Draft of the Term Paper Of Destiny, Dreams and Life Journeys Submitted by: Raian B. Razal IV- Narra I. INTRODUCTION At a certain point of our lives we may realize: "What is the purpose of our life? " Then, we remember our dreams in our life, our aspirations, and the things we have wanted to be...

2 224 words

The title of the book is The Alchemist written by Paolo Coelho. The book has one hundred ninety five pages. Its publisher is HarperCollins Publishers Inc. The company that published the book is the Harpertorch located at the 10 East 53rd street New York, New York. A previous paperback edition was...

Santiago guides his flock throughout the fields of Andalusia. He finds an old abandoned church and churchyard where he and his flock can spend the night. He sleeps on the stone floor using his book as a pillow. He anticipates his approach the Andalusian village where, one year prior, he met a...

“When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to  achieve it”. This powerful quote from Paul Coehlo’s The Alchemist, is just one of the  book’s messages that changed me. In this story, Santiago, a young shepherd, decides ...

Have you ever wondered if you had a specific purpose in life, that nagging feeling that you were meant to do something, a destiny for which you've been placed on Earth, and all you have to do is to discover what it is? If so, then after reading The Alchemist you may have a better idea of what it...

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Essay Samples on The Alchemist

"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

Paulo coelho, ask litcharts ai: the answer to your questions.

In the Prologue, the alchemist reads a story about Narcissus —a youth so fascinated by his own beautiful reflection that he falls into a lake and drowns. In this version of the story, the goddess of the forest encounters the lake in which Narcissus drowned. The lake is weeping, and the goddess assumes that the lake misses Narcissus’s beauty. However, the lake reveals that, actually, it’s weeping because it misses being able to admire its own beautiful reflection in Narcissus’s eyes. “What a lovely story,” the alchemist thinks.

In Part One of the novel, Santiago passes the night with his flock of sheep in an abandoned church . That night, he has a recurring dream. When he wakes, he looks forward to the village he will reach in four days where, the year before, he met a girl, the daughter of a merchant . Meeting her made him wish, for the first time in his life, that he could remain in one place. Santiago loves to travel, and became a shepherd, rather than a priest as his family had wanted, because his father told him that, among poor folk, only shepherds had the opportunity to travel.

A few days before reaching the merchant’s daughter’s village, Santiago encounters a fortune-teller , whom he hopes will be able to interpret his recurring dream. In the dream, a child transports Santiago to the Pyramids of Egypt and promises he will find hidden treasure there, but Santiago always wakes up just as the child is about to reveal it. After making Santiago promise to give her one-tenth of the treasure as payment, the fortuneteller interprets the dream to mean that if Santiago journeys to the pyramids, he’ll find hidden treasure.

Annoyed that he could have come to this interpretation on his own, Santiago leaves, and soon sits down in the plaza to read his book. An old man sits down next to him and says that it’s an important book, but that it contains the world’s greatest lie: that we do not control what happens to us. The old man introduces himself as Melchizedek , the King of Salem, and adds that if Santiago gives him one-tenth of this sheep, he will tell Santiago how to find his treasure. Santiago wonders if the old man and the fortune-teller are working together to rob him, but gives up his suspicions when Melchizedek demonstrates knowledge of things about Santiago’s life he couldn’t possibly know. Melchizedek explains that Santiago has discovered his Personal Legend – the thing a person has always wanted to accomplish. Each person knows what it is when he is young, but loses track of it as he ages. Melchizedek says that he appears to people in moments when they are about to give up on their Personal Legends.

The next day, Santiago meets Melchizedek and gives him six sheep. He sells his other sheep to a friend who dreamed of becoming a shepherd. Melchizedek says that to find his treasure, Santiago will have to follow the omens God reveals to him. Melchizedek gives Santiago two stones, called Urim and Thummin , which can be used for fortune telling. But he cautions Santiago also to rely on his own decisions.

Santiago arrives in Morocco, but quickly gets robbed and winds up sleeping in a marketplace. Eventually, Santiago wanders into a crystal shop and asks the crystal merchant for a job in exchange for something to eat. After Santiago cleans crystal all day, the merchant gives him dinner. Santiago is crushed when he learns that he would have to work for years to earn enough money to travel to the Pyramids, but he decides to work for the merchant in order to earn money to buy some sheep.

As Part Two of the novel opens, Santiago is working for the crystal merchant. He wants to build a display case to draw more attention to the store, but the merchant resists. The merchant doesn’t like change, and explains that he has always been an observant Muslim, but has never made a pilgrimage to Mecca. Though he could now, finally, afford the trip, he still puts it off because he fears not having something to look forward to in his future. He doesn’t want to realize his dream; he just wants to dream. But he does give Santiago permission to build the display case.

Business at the shop increases. Santiago is pleased that he is working toward his goal of acquiring an even larger flock of sheep. He has also earned to recognize omens: when he sees a man out of breath after climbing the hill to the shop, he realizes they should sell tea in the crystal they are selling. The merchant knows that this will change the nature of the business, but he feels he cannot resist the inevitable, or as he says “maktub,” meaning “it is written.” He sees Santiago’s appearance in his life as both a blessing and a curse. Santiago saved his business, but also showed him what his business was capable of, meaning he can never again be content with the simple business he had.

Soon Santiago has enough money to buy a large herd of sheep, but before doing so he happens upon Urim and Thummin in his old shepherd’s bag and decides instead to pursue his treasure. He suddenly feels tremendously happy, and finds a caravan crossing the desert. As he waits for the caravan to leave, Santiago meets an Englishman who tells him that there is a universal language understood by everybody. He says he is in search of that language, and hopes to find an alchemist in the desert who can teach him more.

As the caravan travels to the desert oasis of Al-Fayoum, Santiago becomes friends with a camel driver who used to be a farmer before his land was flooded. The camel driver says that disaster taught him to understand that many people are afraid of losing what they have, but this fear is no longer relevant when you understand that human lives were written by the same hand that created the world. He also advises Santiago that if you can concentrate on the present, you'll be happy. Meanwhile, the Englishman tells Santiago of a common principle that connects all things – the Soul of the World – and lends Santiago some books about the Master Work of alchemy: an Emerald Tablet, on which was written the secret to creating the Philosopher’s Stone, which could turn lead into gold, and the Elixir of Life, which granted mortality.

The caravan arrives safely at the oasis, which is the size of a large city. The oasis is neutral in the constant wars of the surrounding tribes, and no one can carry weapons there. Santiago helps the Englishman search for the alchemist, but with little luck. At one point, Santiago approaches a young woman to ask about the alchemist and suddenly he feels the Soul of the World. Immediately he realizes that the universal language is love. He meets with the woman, Fatima , day after day, and tells her of his quest for his treasure and how it has brought him to her. Eventually, Fatima tells Santiago that she has learned about omens from his stories, and that because of this learning she wants Santiago to continue toward his goal and pursue his dream. Fatima says "maktub," and tells Santiago that if they are really meant to be together, then he'll return to her one day.

One day as he walks in the desert, Santiago sees a hawk attack another and has a vision of an army attacking the oasis. Santiago goes to the tribal chieftains of the oasis to warn them. The chieftains respond that the next day the men of the oasis will break the agreement of the oasis and carry arms — if Santiago’s warning proves true he will be rewarded; but if it does not, he will lose his life.

Santiago leaves the chieftains’ tent upset, when suddenly a strange man on horseback confronts him. Santiago embraces the possibility of his own death and is not afraid. The stranger then reveals this was a test of Santiago's courage, which is essential when one wants to understand the Language of the World. Santiago has met the alchemist.

The next day, Santiago’s prophecy is fulfilled and the oasis is attacked, but the inhabitants of the oasis are ready to defend themselves. Santiago receives his reward: fifty pieces of gold. Soon after, the alchemist takes Santiago out into the desert to test whether he can find life in the desert. Santiago allows his horse to lead them, and the find a snake –the alchemist agrees to guide Santiago across the desert. Santiago wants to stay at the oasis because of Fatima, but the alchemist explains that if he stays, he will be haunted by the loss of his opportunity to find his treasure.

As they travel in the desert, the alchemist explains that the Emerald Tablet is a direct link to the Soul of the World. In the early times, everything about the Master Work could be written on the Emerald Tablet. But men rejected simple things. The alchemist directs Santiago back toward this simplicity, and says that Santiago should listen to his heart , because it came from the Soul of the World. Santiago practices listening to his heart, and comes to understand his heart’s changes and contradictions, and that people are afraid to pursue their most important dreams because they know they will suffer if they don’t succeed.

Not long after, Santiago and the alchemist are taken prisoner by one of the warring tribes. Soon they are brought before the enemy chieftain , who thinks that they’re spies. The alchemist responds that Santiago is an alchemist who can turn himself into the wind, and says that if Santiago has not turned himself into the wind in three days time, the chieftain can kill them. The chieftain agrees.

Once they’re alone, Santiago protests that he has no idea how to turn himself into the wind, but the alchemist responds that when a person is living out his Personal Legend, he has all the tools he needs—the only thing that could hold him back is the fear of failure. He adds that if Santiago does not succeed, then at least he’ll die while trying to realize his Personal Legend.

On the first and second days, Santiago is at a loss. On the third day, the enemy chieftain has Santiago go up to a cliff above the enemy camp. Santiago appeals to the desert, the wind, and the sun to help him, but none of them are able. The sun recommends that Santiago speak directly to the “hand that wrote all,” though, and Santiago reaches through the Soul of the World and discovers the Soul of God. He sees the oneness between his own soul and the Soul of God and, because of this oneness, realizes that he has the ability to perform miracles. Santiago turns himself into the wind, creating a terrible windstorm. The tribesmen are terrified, but the alchemist is happy to have found such an ideal student, and the enemy chieftain is pleased to have witnessed the glory of Allah. The next day, Santiago and the alchemist leave the camp with an honor guard.

Eventually they reach a Coptic monastery, where a monk welcomes them inside to rest. While there, the alchemist uses the Philosopher’s Stone to change lead into gold. He gives a quarter of the gold to the monk for his hospitality, a quarter to Santiago to repay him for the amount taken by the enemy chieftain, and quarter for himself. The final quarter he gives to the monk, saying that it is for Santiago if he ever needs it. The alchemist tells Santiago everyone on earth plays an important role, even if he doesn't know it. Then the alchemist bids Santiago farewell.

Santiago rides alone through the desert, listening to his heart, which tells him that he will find his treasure at the place where he is brought to tears. At the top of a dune, Santiago sees the Egyptian pyramids before him. He falls to his knees and cries out in thanks to God for making him follow his Personal Legend. Remembering the words of his heart, Santiago digs in the place he fell to his knees crying.

As he digs, several people approach Santiago. They are desperate refugees from the tribal wars, and they beat Santiago and take the gold given to him by the alchemist. When Santiago tells them he is looking for treasure at that place, the leader of the refugees says he’s being stupid. The leader adds that two years earlier he himself had a recurring dream in which he saw an abandoned church that sheltered shepherds and sheep. The dream told him that if he dug at the roots of the tree growing through the center of the church, he would find a hidden treasure. But he never went in search of the treasure, because it was just a dream. After the refugees have left, Santiago laughs aloud, because now he knows the location of his treasure.

In the Epilogue, Santiago reaches the abandoned church where his story began. He thinks of the strangeness of the path that God has led him on, but is grateful for the people he has met along the way. He soon uncovers a chest of gold and jewels. The wind begins to blow, and it brings with it a familiar scent of perfume. Santiago smiles and says, “I’m coming, Fatima.”

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The Alchemist: Personal Legend and Themes in The Book

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Published: Aug 4, 2023

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Table of contents

Introduction, love as a central theme in the alchemist, the alchemist: unity and connection with nature, fate and pursuit of personal legend in the alchemist, works cited.

• Coelho, Paulo. The Alchemist. HarperOne, 1988.

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The Alchemist’s Wisdom and its Universal Themes

This essay about “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho analyzes the novel’s key themes, including the pursuit of one’s Personal Legend, the importance of listening to one’s heart, and the transformative power of dreams. It outlines how the protagonist, Santiago’s journey to fulfill his destiny, encapsulates the universal quest for self-discovery and actualization. The essay highlights Coelho’s suggestion that the universe aids those on their path to realizing their dreams and underscores the significance of intuition and emotional intelligence in understanding our place in the world. Additionally, it addresses the challenges and sacrifices inherent in pursuing one’s dreams, viewing them as essential for growth and achievement. Through “The Alchemist,” the essay explores the narrative’s encouragement for readers to dream boldly and to recognize the journey towards those dreams as a personal evolution, urging them to embrace their journeys with courage and trust in the support of the universe.

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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 one’s innermost convictions, and the catalytic force of aspirations.

At the core of “The Alchemist” lies the motif of the Personal Legend. Coelho intimates that each individual harbors a destiny that is both sui generis and predestined. Santiago’s relentless pursuit of his Personal Legend metamorphoses into a metaphor for the odyssey of anyone endeavoring to actualize their latent potential or aspiration. This motif espouses the notion that the pursuit of one’s aspirations is not merely an individual endeavor but a spiritual imperative, and that the cosmos aligns to aid those who are resolute in charting their course.

Another pivotal motif is the significance of attuning to one’s heart. Amidst Santiago’s myriad escapades, spanning from the vibrant bazaars of Tangier to the enigmatic Egyptian pyramids, the paramountcy of intuition and emotional acuity is underscored. Coelho contends that the heart communicates in a dialect that transcends linguistic expression and that deciphering this dialect is pivotal in ascertaining one’s niche in the cosmos. This motif resonates deeply with readers, prompting introspection into the innate wisdom and the significance of entrusting one’s inner voice.

Moreover, “The Alchemist” plumbs the transformative potency of aspirations. Santiago’s sojourn commences with a literal reverie that propels him on a trajectory of exploration, yet it becomes evident that the reverie epitomizes the broader aspirations and yearnings that lie dormant within each of us. Coelho employs Santiago’s narrative as a parable to elucidate how aspirations serve as the impelling force behind personal evolution and self-realization. The narrative exhorts readers to envisage audaciously and to recognize the odyssey toward actualizing those aspirations as a font of personal refinement and illumination.

However, the narrative also confronts the inevitable vicissitudes and sacrifices that accompany the pursuit of one’s aspirations. Santiago encounters a plethora of obstacles, ranging from fiscal setbacks to the specter of conflict, yet these trials are depicted not as impediments but as indispensable stages in the trajectory toward actualizing his Personal Legend. This motif of fortitude and persistence serves as a potent admonition that impediments and setbacks are integral to personal maturation and triumph.

In summation, “The Alchemist” stands as a repository of sagacity, proffering insights into the pursuit of aspirations, the pivotality of heeding one’s heart, and the odyssey toward personal destiny. Coelho’s motifs serve as a testament to the potency of belief, affection, and persistence in the face of adversity. They embolden readers to embrace their individual odysseys with courage and sanguinity, trusting that the cosmos will indeed conspire in their favor. Through Santiago’s narrative, Coelho beckons us to contemplate our own lives, entreating us to pursue our aspirations with unwavering determination and to hearken attentively to the sagacity of our hearts.

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The Alchemist

73 pages • 2 hours read

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Computer Science > Computation and Language

Title: llm2vec: large language models are secretly powerful text encoders.

Abstract: Large decoder-only language models (LLMs) are the state-of-the-art models on most of today's NLP tasks and benchmarks. Yet, the community is only slowly adopting these models for text embedding tasks, which require rich contextualized representations. In this work, we introduce LLM2Vec, a simple unsupervised approach that can transform any decoder-only LLM into a strong text encoder. LLM2Vec consists of three simple steps: 1) enabling bidirectional attention, 2) masked next token prediction, and 3) unsupervised contrastive learning. We demonstrate the effectiveness of LLM2Vec by applying it to 3 popular LLMs ranging from 1.3B to 7B parameters and evaluate the transformed models on English word- and sequence-level tasks. We outperform encoder-only models by a large margin on word-level tasks and reach a new unsupervised state-of-the-art performance on the Massive Text Embeddings Benchmark (MTEB). Moreover, when combining LLM2Vec with supervised contrastive learning, we achieve state-of-the-art performance on MTEB among models that train only on publicly available data. Our strong empirical results and extensive analysis demonstrate that LLMs can be effectively transformed into universal text encoders in a parameter-efficient manner without the need for expensive adaptation or synthetic GPT-4 generated data.

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