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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. Once all of the metal's properties are burned away, what is left?

2. What does the Alchemist advise Santiago to listen to in order to immerse himself in the desert?

3. What did the Alchemist say to the Englishman when asked about teaching him how to turn lead into gold?

4. What does Santiago's heart tell him as he and the Alchemist pass the encampment in Part 6?

5. What final decision does Santiago make about the Alchemist's proposal?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does the Alchemist suggest will happen if Santiago does not pursue his destiny?

2. What is the Alchemist testing when Santiago encounters him after leaving the chieftain?

3. What does the Alchemist tell Santiago about learning to turn lead into gold?

4. How does Santiago propose one should learn about the universal language?

5. Why does the tribal chief order the members to carry weapons?

6. What conclusion does Santiago make about all of the information he reads in the Englishman's books?

7. What do Santiago and the Alchemist discuss at the beginning of their journey in Part 6?

8. What does it mean when Santiago tells the Englishman that all the teachings in his books could be "written on the surface of an emerald?"

9. What is courage the essential ingredient in, according to the Alchemist?

10. What does the Alchemist say quests begin and end with?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Choose one aspect of symbolism from the text and explain it in detail. Include details such as: what is the symbol, what is it a symbol for, why is the symbolism important to the story, etc... Include specific examples from the text to support your discussion.

Essay Topic 2

Was Santiago's father's prediction that Santiago would find his true treasure at home was true? Explain your answer in detail with many supporting details.

Essay Topic 3

Explain the importance of literacy within this novel. Do not report on being unable to read the novel if one is illiterate. Instead, focus on how literacy brings power within the novel. Provide specific examples to support your opinion.

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