The Alchemist Novel Exam

Which quote is most clearly connected to the thematic idea of the pursuit of goals or dreams?

• “There was also the merchant’s daughter, but she wasn’t as important as his flock, because she didn’t depend on him.”
• "The secret of happiness is to see all the marvels of the world, and never to forget the drops of oil on the spoon
• “The boy promised himself that, when he returned from Egypt, he would buy that sword.”
• “He was feeling sorry for himself, and lamenting the fact that his life could have changed so suddenly and so drastically.”

In Tarifa, a young man in Western dress offers to help Santiago reach the pyramids. What valuable life lesson does Santiago learn from his encounter with this individual?

• Kind people will help you on your journey if you are reaching for your goals.
• Trusting people ensures a strong bond is created between them.
• Sometimes, you must lose something valuable in order to truly appreciate the obstacles in your path.
• Sacrifices must always be made in order to fulfill your dreams.

Regarding the crystal merchant’s decision to allow Santiago to sell tea at the crystal shop, the narrator says, “Sometimes, there’s just no way to hold back the river.” This line relates most clearly to which thematic idea?

• the ordinary versus the extraordinary
• symbolism in nature
• belief in --or rejection-- the idea of fate
• the hero's journey

Throughout the novel, Santiago’s recurring thoughts of returning to life as a shepherd represent

• the pitfalls we encounter in pursuit of our goals.
• how our subconscious desires become known to us when the time is right.
• Santiago’s ability to pursue multiple paths simultaneously.
• the human tendency to seek the familiar when we are afraid

The significance of being in harmony with nature and acknowledging the importance of understanding our interconnectedness with one another is represented in the book by

• the story of Narcissus

• omens

• the oasis

• your destiny

Anyone who tries to find a shortcut to his or her Personal Legend is represented in the book by

• pyramids

• the alchemist

• the thief

• the Englishmen

The consequences of not following your Personal Legend and suffering regret are represented in the book by

• the Gypsy

• the Crystal Shop Owner

• the King

• the camel driver

The Englishman doesn't  believe the boy can understand Alchemy, he says "His soul is  too primitive". The  tone of the  Englishman's voice could be described as...

• positive
• condescending 
• irritated
• neutral

The detailed imagery used to describe chieftains’ tent at the center of the oasis serves primarily to

• contrast Arab and Spanish cultural norms
• reflect Santiago's awe of the chieftains opulence and authority
• highlight the chieftains' wealth in comparison to the poverty of other residents of the oasis
• foreshadow the treasure Santiago will discover

After offering Santiago wine, he asks if wine is still prohibited here. The alchemist replies, "It's not what enters men's mouths that's evil. It's what comes out of their mouths that is."
What is his claim?

• he is saying that food and drink can't be evil
• he is saying the ban on wine is silly
• he is saying that men should be concerned with what they say and not what they consume
• he is saying he likes wine more than conversation.