A Comprehensive Analysis of Literary Protagonists - Sykalo Evgen 2023

The alchemist - “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

Paulo Coelho's "The Alchemist": The Alchemist's Journey: Revealing the Layers of Santiago's Character

The timeless and enthralling story "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho transports readers on a voyage of self-discovery, fate, and pursuing one's ambitions. Santiago, a teenage shepherd who sets out on a life-changing journey to discover his Personal Legend, is at the center of the story. Through a thorough examination of Santiago's static or dynamic nature, function in the narrative, background, personality traits, relationships, actions, conflicts, growth, and overall significance, this analysis explores the complex and multifaceted nature of Santiago.

Determine the Type of Character

Without a doubt, Santiago, the main character in "The Alchemist," is a lively person. Santiago experiences significant transformations from the start of the narrative to its conclusion, both on the inside and outside. His persona changes as a result of several contacts, struggles, and experiences, mirroring the hero's journey's transformational quality.

Examine the Character's Function in the Narrative

Santiago, the main character, is the protagonist and hero of "The Alchemist." The plot advances because of his physical and figurative search for treasure. In addition to being deeply personal, Santiago's trip is symbolic, signifying the universal pursuit of dreams and self-discovery. His function goes beyond that of a simple person; he turns into a medium for delving into more significant subjects like spirituality, destiny, and the interdependence of all things.

Look into the History of the Character

Santiago's shepherding upbringing is essential to comprehending his personality. Growing up in the fields of Andalusia, he gains important life lessons from the quiet and simplicity of caring for his flock. Although his family relationships are not discussed in great detail, the fact that he has no strong attachments to anyone gives him the flexibility to travel without worrying about other people's expectations. Santiago's non-rigid upbringing serves as a blank canvas for the author to depict the life-changing events that shape his persona.

Examine the Personality Traits of the Character

Santiago's complexity stems from a combination of his good and negative personality qualities. As he navigates the obstacles of his voyage, his curiosity, bravery, and open-mindedness shine through. On the other hand, his early impatience and inexperience draw attention to his flaws and emphasize how real his character is. Because of his unique ability to envision and believe in the unusual, Santiago appeals to readers on a personal and aspirational level.

Assess the Character's Interactions

Throughout the narrative, Santiago has a variety of relationships that influence his development and worldview. Each of Santiago's relationships, including those with the Englishman, Fatima, and Melchizedek, the king of Salem, acts as a catalyst for his growth. These links highlight the significance of interpersonal relationships in determining one's fate and acknowledging the interdependence of all life.

Examine the Behavior of the Character

The story is mostly driven by Santiago's actions, which also highlight the depths of his character. He shows courage and dedication to his goals by choosing to follow his Personal Legend and abandon the comfortable shepherd life. Through overcoming obstacles like crossing a desert and coming across hostile tribes, Santiago demonstrates his flexibility and resilience. His growth mentality is evident in his eagerness to learn from every event, which has helped him transform overall.

Determine the Character's Issues

Santiago experiences difficulties both inside and outside of himself, which molds his personality. He struggles with uncertainty, anxiety, and the want to give up on his mission on an internal level. He has to deal with the weather, robbers, and the doubt of everyone around him on the outside. Santiago's growth is tested by these confrontations, which make him face his fears and go beyond his own perceptions of what is possible.

Evaluate the Character's Development or Evolution

The path of transformation that Santiago underwent is crucial to his character. Santiago experiences a tremendous transformation, evolving from a dreaming shepherd into an experienced wanderer with deep spiritual understanding. His progress reached significant turning points with the understanding of the Soul of the World and the alchemical process. Santiago's transformation from a dreamer to a self-proclaimed alchemist represents the transformational potential of living out one's personal legend.

Provide Evidence to Back Up Your Analysis

Through evocative descriptions, engaging dialogue, and the protagonist's own insights, Coelho offers abundant proof of Santiago's character. For example, Santiago expresses his ideas, anxieties, and goals through his internal monologues. His actions and interactions with other characters are described in detail, providing insights into his character traits and the reasons behind his decisions. An in-depth examination of Santiago's character is based on direct comments from him and individuals in his immediate vicinity.

Determine the Significance of the Character

The importance of Santiago goes beyond the pages of the story. He turns into a representation of the human search for satisfaction and purpose. His story strikes a chord with readers everywhere, encouraging them to follow their aspirations with unyielding resolve. Santiago's persona serves as a metaphor for the main ideas of the book, which are the value of following one's intuition, appreciating the interdependence of all things, and accepting the transformational potential of travel.

In summary

In "The Alchemist," Paulo Coelho creates a protagonist named Santiago whose compelling personality acts as the central theme of the story. The journey of Santiago from a poor shepherd to a spiritually enlightened alchemist embodies the novel's examination of fate, dreams, and introspection. It becomes clear from a careful examination of Santiago's static or dynamic nature, role, background, personality traits, connections, actions, conflicts, and progress that he is a patchwork of experiences that profoundly connects with readers. Because of Santiago's relevance in both the story's setting and the universal themes he embodies, "The Alchemist" is a timeless and profoundly transforming piece of literature.