Key Characters in The Alchemist
The Gypsy
Role: Santiago seeks her out to interpret a dream he’s constantly having. She’s the first
person that suggests that Santiago pursues his dream to find his treasure. In return for the
dream interpretation, Santiago promises the Gypsy one tenth of his potential treasure.
Beliefs/Aspirations:
 “I only interpret dreams. I don’t know how to turn them into reality” (p.15)
The Gypsy woman believes that she possesses a supernatural gift, making her
living by explaining dreams to people.
 “It’s a dream in the language of the world …only wise men are able to
understand them” (p.14)
The Gypsy has a very brief understanding of the language of the world. She
knows of it, but not the depths of the language of the world.
 “You must go to the pyramids in Egypt … There you will find a treasure that will
make you a very rich man” (p14)
The Gypsy believed that the dream is an omen and encourages the boy to pursue
in traveling to Egypt to find his treasure.
What character teaches Santiago: The Gypsy woman is the first person whom
mentions “The language of the world” and encourages Santiago to follow through with
his dream, as it has a greater meaning than he realizes
Santiago
Role: Protagonist. From town Andalusia became a Shepard in order to pursue traveling,
which he loved, as well as being able to enjoy his freedom. He meets a mysterious man
who claims to be a king, and convinced Santiago to pursue his “Personal Legend”.
Beliefs/Aspirations: At the beginning of the novel, Santiago was content with his
lifestyle, and felt comfortable with doing only what he was used to and knew. Towards
the end of the novel as the journey unfolds, Santiago realizes his whole potential and his
role in contributing to the “Soul of the World”
What character teaches Santiago:
By the conclusion of the novel, Santiago teaches himself:
 Dreams are the language in which the Universe speaks
 True love never gets in the way of living one’s life to the fullest
 The saying, “Maktub”. An Arabic word meaning “written”. This means that one’s
goal in life is to accept and pursue what is already meant for them, finding one’s
“Personal Legend”.
 Once you desire something with your heart, the world works in your favour to
help you achieve it
 Everything in “The Soul of the World” is one. All people, plants, rocks and
elements are the same since they were all written and created by one hand, God.
 One must dream and pursue in achieving their dreams
Melchizedek/The “Old King”
Role: Melchizedek is the king of Salem who appears to Santiago and first tells his about
the Soul of the World and his personal Legend. The old king is the individual who truly
gets the boy to contemplate and consider pursing in following his dream. He tells
Santiago that he helps those who are trying to live their Personal Legend. He gives
Santiago the magical stones Urim & Thummim, which help the boy with tough decisions.
Beliefs/Aspirations: Melchizedek is a very wise, mysterious man. He appears to have the
ability to read Santiago’s mind and briefly informs Santiago of the Omens, Personal
Legend, and the Soul of the World.
 “The gods should not have desires because they do not have Personal Legends.
But the king of Salem hoped desperately that the boy would be successful.” (p.33)
This quote implies that Melchizedek was of a greater good; a God. He had faith
and hope in Santiago and believed in him. He wished only success for Santiago.
What character teaches Santiago:
The old king introduces Santiago to several of the key concepts. He tells tells Santiago
about Personal Legends, the Soul of the World, omens and Beginner’s Luck. He
motivates Santiago to actually go out and travel to Egypt for his treasure. He tells
Santiago how important it is to notice omens, and follow them. During Santiago’s
journey, the king gives him motivation and hope through the magical stones.