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The Alchemist

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Setting and Characters:
The Alchemist The book The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a compelling story that provides deep thoughts and insight. The variation of characters and use of imagery in the setting really makes the story appealing. The characters provide understanding, while the setting provides background information. The characters in the story help provide understanding by their actions and beliefs. In the beginning of the story the a Spanish shepherd meets a “king” from Salem. The “king” comes from a muslim background, while the shepherd comes from a christian background. These two characters immediately question each other due to their beliefs, until the old man sparks a conversation with him. Here the shepherd’s actions change

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