Literary Terms And An Introduction To The Alchemist Plot

Literary Termsand An Introduction To The Alchemistplot Or Structureset

Literary Terms and An Introduction to The Alchemist Plot or Structure Setting Point-of-View Characterization Theme The Five Main Elements of Fiction: Definition: Structure of the story Way in which the story's events are arranged Plot Linear Non-Linear Exposition: The basic information the reader needs to understand the events Usually found at the beginning of the story Tells us where and when the story takes place Tells us who the characters are Tells us what the initial situation is tells us what has happened before the story begins provides any other background information we may need Sometimes begins in medias res (in the middle of things) Plot Conflict: struggle between opposing forces External Conflict Struggle between the character and his/her environment, society, or with another character Internal Conflict Opposing forces within the character Plot Crisis: a peak in the story’s action – there can be several a moment of tension Plot Climax: moment of greatest tension in the story the scene that presents the story's decisive action or events Plot Resolution: draws the story’s action to a close Happens after the climax Some modern stories provide little or no resolution Plot Setting Definition: The time, place, and social reality within which the story takes place When and where do the events of the story take place? When trying to determine if setting is important to the story, ask yourself this question: Could this story happen at any other time or in any other place? If the answer is no, then setting is one of the most important elements of fiction that make the story work. If the answer is yes, then setting might be an irrelevant point Setting When and where do the story’s events take place? Is anything about the setting vague? Why? Consider both the author's social reality, and the social reality within the story consider societal attitudes, historical events, the author's background (if relevant), and anything else that places a story within a social and cultural context Setting Point-of-View Definition: The perspective from which the story is told 1st person (generally uses an “I” voice) Participant Observer 3rd person (usually uses a “They” voice) Point-of-View Character – the fictional representation of someone (sometimes an animal or a concept) Protagonist – the main character in the story Antagonist – the force that opposes the main character Can be… Another character A force of nature An animal Opposing forces within the protagonist Characterization Static Character – a character who remains basically unchanged by the end of the story Dynamic Character – a character who changes by the end of the story The change can be… A change of attitude A change of behavior A change in how the character views him/herself, another character, the situation at hand, or the world Epiphany - Some moment of insight, discovery or revelation by which a character's life, or view of life, is greatly altered Dynamic characters experience an epiphany Characterization Theme Definition: The central or underlying idea In order to identify theme (stories can have several themes), ask yourself what subjects the story addresses Theme Foreshadowing – a hint of things to come Flashback – when the story moves out of sequence to examine the past Style – the way in which the writer crafts the story Imagery – something that appeals to one of our five senses Metaphor – making a comparison between two unlike things Simile – same as above, except using the words “like” or “as” in the comparison Other Terms Symbol - a person, place, thing, action, or event that, in addition to its literal meaning, also stands for something else Tone – the attitude of the narrator (or author) to the subject of the story Allusion – a reference to a Biblical, historical, or mythological event or person The reference should provide a thematic connection between the story and something from the past Other Terms See next few slides As your read The Alchemist, think about how you could answer the following questions: Define the plot structure in The Alchemist What information is included in the Exposition of the story? What information is excluded from the Exposition? Why do you think the author would choose to do this? Plot When and where do the story’s events take place? Is anything about the setting vague? Why? What is the social reality? Is it important to understanding the motivations of any of the characters? Setting in The Alchemist How do you define the point-of-view in this story? Is the point-of-view important? Why or why not? Point-of-View in The Alchemist Who is the protagonist? Who is the antagonist (or the antagonistic force?) (There are many in this novel) By the end of the novel, is Santiago a static or dynamic character? Defend your position Characterization in The Alchemist What are some of the themes (or subjects) in the novel? Theme in The Alchemist image1.jpeg image2.gif image3.jfif

Paper For Above instruction

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a profoundly philosophical novel that explores themes of personal destiny, spiritual growth, and the quest for meaning. Its intricate plot and rich symbolism make it a compelling example of narrative structure and literary devices. This paper will analyze the plot structure, setting, point of view, characterization, and themes within the novel, illustrating how these elements contribute to its overall impact and message.

Plot Structure of The Alchemist

The plot of The Alchemist follows a largely linear story, centered on Santiago, a young Andalusian shepherd. The exposition introduces Santiago’s simple life, his longing for adventure, and his recurring dream about treasure located near the Egyptian pyramids. The initial background also reveals Santiago's social environment—rural Andalusia—and the societal attitudes towards dreams and personal pursuits. The story progresses through a series of key events: Santiago’s decision to pursue his dream, his journey across the desert, encounters with various characters like Melchizedek, the king of Salem, and the alchemist himself. The conflict arises from Santiago’s internal struggle between following his personal legend and societal expectations, as well as external obstacles such as the physical challenges of the desert and the need to interpret omens.

The climax occurs when Santiago discovers the treasure, realizing that the true treasure was his personal journey and spiritual enlightenment all along. The story resolves as Santiago returns home, transformed and enlightened, confirming that the journey was more significant than the destination.

Regarding the exposition, the story introduces Santiago’s ordinary life and dreams but leaves some details about his background vague, emphasizing the universal nature of his quest. The author omits specific details about his family and societal status to focus on his internal journey and the themes of destiny and self-discovery. This selective exposition invites readers to project their own experiences onto Santiago’s journey.

Setting and Point-of-View

The setting of The Alchemist spans multiple locations, including the plains of Andalusia, the markets of Tangier, and the sands of the Egyptian desert. The timeline is contemporary to when the novel was published but emphasizes timeless spiritual journeys that transcend specific historical moments. The vagueness of some locations—such as the desert—serves to universalize the story, suggesting that such a quest could happen anywhere, at any time, if one is attuned to the signs of the universe.

The social reality depicted includes a mixture of religious and cultural attitudes, reflective of Middle Eastern and Western traditions. These contexts are essential for understanding characters’ motivations, especially Santiago’s desire to find his treasure and the belief systems guiding his actions.

The narrative is told from a third-person omniscient point of view, which allows the reader to understand the thoughts and motives of multiple characters, primarily Santiago. The omniscient perspective unlocks deeper insights into Santiago’s internal conflicts and spiritual growth, making it a vital tool for the novel’s thematic depth.

Characterization and Themes

Santiago’s character transforms from a naive shepherd to a wise individual who understands that true treasure lies within. This dynamic transformation—marked by moments of epiphany and realization—illustrates core themes such as the importance of pursuing one’s dreams, listening to one’s heart, and understanding the interconnectedness of all things. Other themes include destiny, the universe’s signs, and love, which guides Santiago through his journey.

The novel’s symbolism deepens these themes, with symbols such as the desert representing life’s challenges, the alchemist embodying spiritual mastery, and the treasure symbolizing ultimate fulfillment. Stylistically, Coelho employs poetic imagery and metaphors to evoke a sense of wonder and introspection. The tone of the narrative shifts from curiosity and longing to a profound sense of spiritual harmony as Santiago learns to interpret the omens.

Overall, The Alchemist exemplifies how literary elements—plot, setting, perspective, character, theme—interweave to create an inspiring story of individual pursuit and spiritual awakening. Its universal messages are conveyed through a simple yet profound narrative structure, making it a timeless masterpiece that encourages readers to pursue their own personal legends.

References

• Coelho, P. (1988). The Alchemist. HarperOne.
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