The Alchemist Part One Discussion Questions
Below are a few questions designed to help guide the group discussion for The Alchemist Part One.
Melchizedek tells Santiago that when people are young, they all know their reasons for being, but they give up too soon. He has sensed that Santiago is on the verge of trying to realize his Personal Legend. What are your thoughts on Personal Legends, and do you agree with Melchizedek?
Melchizedek tells Santiago that he often appears in people's lives just at the moment they are about to give up on their destiny. What is your take on destiny, and have you ever had a moment similar to what Melchizedek speaks of?
At many points in Part One, Santiago finds himself in the middle of two worlds. In the hero’s journey model, Santiago is standing right on the Threshold of Adventure when debating whether or not to go to Africa. He has to decide whether to respond to The Call, or not. At this point, we see his uncertainty when he momentarily changes his mind and decides to stay and continue being a shepherd. What makes Santiago hesitate at this moment?
Let’s dissect this quote, “‘Well, there is only one piece of advice I can give you,’ said the wisest of wise men. ‘The secret of happiness is to see all the marvels of the world, and never to forget the drops of oil on the spoon,’” (Coelho, 35).
The Alchemist talks about a "universal language;" the language of the world. What is this language? How is it different from spoken language? Why would people's "fascination with pictures and words" cause people to forget the universal language? What are the consequences of forgetting it?
Let’s dissect this quote, “As he mused about these things, he realized that he had to choose between thinking of himself as the poor victim of a thief and as an adventurer in quest of his treasure. ‘I’m an adventurer, looking for treasure,’ he said to himself.” (Coelho, 45).
What’s a quote from Part One that stuck with you? Why does this quote feel significant to you?