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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. What do do the individuals who approach the Alchemist and Santiago in Part 6 do when the alchemist explains what the items in his bag do?

2. What does Santiago tell the Alchemist that his heart is afraid of?

3. What does tribal tradition say about the oasis?

4. What does the Alchemist say has come to represent the highest point of evolution?

5. What does the Alchemist say quests always begin with?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What does the Alchemist do with all of Santiago's money in Part 6?

3. What does the Alchemist say needs to happen in order for them to realize their destiny?

4. What is the vision which Santiago has at the end of Part 4?

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

6. What is the only way to stay happy according to the camel driver, who is a friend to Santiago?

7. What brave step does Santiago take at the beginning of Part 5?

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

9. What does the tribal chief assure Santiago that the tribe always does?

10. What does Santiago learn to accept as he is crossing the desert in Part 6?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

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.

Essay Topic 2

Discuss the concepts of evolution and conflict in this story. Use examples from the story to support your discussion. Then make a personal connection to the discussion in your own life.

Essay Topic 3

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.

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