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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Where is Santiago transported in his dreams?

2. How old is the alchemist supposed to be?

3. What animal makes up Santiago's flock?

4. Where is the caravan traveling in Part 3?

5. What about his discussion with the old man annoys Santiago in Part 2?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Santiago reflect upon in Part 1 regarding to the sheep?

2. On what does the crystal merchant need to reflect before he decides?

3. How does Santiago think in Part 2 he can get the money to buy a ticket to Africa?

4. In Part 2, what intensifies as Santiago debates whether to stay with his flock or continue on to Egypt?

5. At the beginning of Part 2, why is Santiago annoyed?

6. Why doesn't Santiago buy a ticket to the Egyptian pyramids?

7. How does the crystal merchant feel about Santiago leaving?

8. What does the old man confirm after Santiago has sold his flock?

9. How does Santiago travel to the Egyptian pyramids after leaving the crystal merchant's shop?

10. What does the old man advise Santiago to follow?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Throughout the story, Santiago continues refining his skills. Explain how, throughout your life, you have continued to refine specific skills. Be sure to include examples of the events or activities you had to do to refine your skills and make connections to how Santiago had to refine his skills.

Essay Topic 2

Describe what destiny means to you. Include ideas about whether or not you believe it is predetermined or can change and why you feel that way.

Essay Topic 3

What do you think is the most ironic event of this novel? Use specific events from the text to support your opinion.

(see the answer keys)

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