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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 does the tribal chief tell Santiago to always listen to?

2. What is the goal of alchemists, according to the Englishman?

3. What does the Englishman plan on using the object he built outside of his tent for?

4. in Part 5, what does Santiago think his treasure is?

5. In Part 6, what does Santiago always promise about his heart?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the Englishman feel about Santiago's comments about learning the universal language?

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

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

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

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

6. Why are all oases considered neutral ground during battles?

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

8. In Part 5, why does Santiago resist the idea of continuing his journey to the pyramids?

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

10. Why does the Alchemist warn Santiago to be cautious when making his predictions?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Santiago describes his love for Fatima as true love. Write about what you believe to be the characteristics of true love and use examples from the text to support or defy Fatima and Santiago's love as true love.

Essay Topic 2

Write a character analysis essay on why certain characters disappear throughout the story. Explain how, even though the characters disappear, they still are reflected in the story until the very end of the novel. Be sure to include specific examples from the text.

Essay Topic 3

Throughout this novel, the forces of nature figure prominently. Describe, in detail, how the forces of nature are critical components to the story. Be sure to use supporting details from the text.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 595 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample