Santiago is the protagonist of the novel, the alchemist. Santiago is a young boy that is curious to explore the world and its mysteries. His curiosity led him to become a Sheppard and travel the world along the way. However Santiago was bothered by a recurring about finding a treasure in the pyramids of Egypt. With the advice of a mysterious man named, Melchizedek, Santiago decides to seek the treasure and fulfill his Personal legend. Along the way Santiago travels and meets new people including The Alchemist. The alchemist helps him discover the many wonders of the world, he teaches him to connect with the world and its elements and helps him discover more about himself. Santiago finds the love of his life. In the end Santiago reaches his treasure, finds knowledge and decides to go and follow Fatima and enjoy his treasure with her.
The Alchemist
The alchemist is a powerful and magical character. He is said to be 200 years old, practices alchemy, and is believed to have magical powers. He lives in Al-Fayoum oasis but only certain people get to meet and talk to him. Santiago meets him as he is traveling to seek his treasure. The Alchemist teaches Santiago to connect with the world. He teaches him to understand the world, and in return Santiago is able to change elements to his advantage. The alchemist has powerful elements, like the elixir of life. The alchemist teaches Santiago that he must listen to himself in order to transform himself and achieve his goal. With the guidance and teaching of the alchemist Santiago is able to reach his treasure.
The Crystal Merchant
The crystal merchant is an important figure in The Alchemist. The crystal merchant serves an example of a person who did not fulfill his personal legend. The Merchant helped Santiago when he arrived in Africa. He provided, work, home, and food for Santiago for about a year. The Merchant like Santiago, once tried to chase his personal legend, bu the Merchant gave up. Santiago encourages him to pursue his personal legend, but the Crystal Merchant is too scared to go on. He becomes close to Santiago and gives him advice and encourages Santiago to fulfill his dream. The Crystal merchant becomes to Santiago, a person he doesn't want to end up like. Even though the crystal merchant was kind to Santiago, Santiago decides to take off and accomplish what the crystal merchant didn't, his personal legend.