The Alchemist Novel Questions - Andrew Davis

1.) What was Santiago's true meaning for becoming a shepherd? Was he forced to do this? If so, why?

2.) Who is Melchizedek? What is his significance in appearing before Santiago? In what way does he offer to help Santiago, for what price, and why?

3.) What is described in the story as having the potential to be able to shatter one's confidence in pursuing their destiny? How does this briefly affect Santiago at one point in the story? Does this 'thing' attempt to shatter Santiago's will to pursue his destiny in the story another time?

4.) After all that the Englishman had travelled, he does eventually meet the Alchemist. But, when he does meet him for the first time, what does the alchemist tell him and why? In your opinion, do you think what the Alchemist tells the Englishman is cruel, taking into consideration the countless miles that the Englishman travelled to see just The Alchemist? Or does it make sense, due to the Alchemist's wiseness? Why?

5.) How does the Alchemist view about materialistic wealth?