The Alchemist
Test your knowledge with 45 questions across 3 challenge tiers
Master These Concepts
Review these key terms before taking the quiz
Personal Legend
The unique purpose or destiny that each person is born to fulfill according to the novel
Santiago's Personal Legend is to find treasure at the Egyptian pyramids a dream that drives his entire journey
The Soul of the World
The universal spirit that connects all living things and speaks through omens and the Language of the World
When Santiago learns to communicate with the wind and sun he is tapping into the Soul of the World
The Language of the World
The universal language beyond words that connects all of creation and can be understood through the heart
Santiago learns that the desert the wind and all of nature communicate in this silent language
Maktub
An Arabic word meaning it is written used throughout the novel to express that destiny is predetermined
The crystal merchant often says Maktub accepting both good fortune and limitation as fate
The Emerald Tablet
A mystical text containing alchemical wisdom summarized as all things are one and the universe conspires to help seekers
The Englishman studies this ancient text seeking the secrets of alchemy and transformation
Urim and Thummim
Two stones given to Santiago by Melchizedek – one black meaning yes and one white meaning no – for guidance
Santiago rarely uses these stones learning instead to read omens directly from the world around him
Select a Quiz Tier
Complete each tier to unlock the next and earn your badges.
Fundamentals
TIER 1 • READER BADGE
Deep Dive
TIER 2 • SCHOLAR BADGE
Expert
TIER 3 • MASTER BADGE
