The Alchemist Paulo Coelho Background Information and Notes

Introduction • What is The Alchemist about? – Alchemist video

What is Alchemy? • Alchemy = Chemistry? – Western alchemy lead to the science we now know as chemistry. • Alchemy = medicine? – Alchemy studies also led to modern medicinal cures, especially in herbal cures and Chinese medicine.

What is Alchemy? • Alchemy – An early form of investigating nature – A philosophical and spiritual discipline • It has been practiced worldround and it’s “science” spans over 2500 years!

Alchemy… • The root and history of the word comes from Greek meaning to separate and to join together. • Types of Alchemy – Spygric art – plant alchemy – Transform common metals into gold.

Philosopher’s Stone and The Elixir of Life • The Elixir of Life – a remedy that would supposedly cure all diseases and prolong life indefinitely. • The Philosopher's Stone - a legendary substance that was believed to be the key to both the elixir of life AND transforming metal into gold.

Who is Paulo Coelho? • Influential contemporary author – 11 books – Translated to 57 languages – 51 million copies published and sold in 150 countries • "His books have had a life-enhancing impact on millions of people“ wrote The Times in the UK.

Context • The Alchemist is a story about Santiago, a shepherd. • It combines philosophies and faiths of many different cultures and time periods. • Aims: – Personal truth – Fate and destiny – Personal happiness

Setting • Santiago travels on a journey from _______ to _______ Andalusia/Tarifa Spain Tangier, Morocco Jerusalem, Israel

What is a fable? • Fables – Recognizable Characters – Simple settings – Often give animals and parts of nature human qualities and characteristics. – Emphasize a moral: a truth about human nature or life.

Preview… • Lego Animation of a scene in the story: • Santiago Meets the Old Man