Presentation Transcript

1. The Alchemist Paulo Coelho Background Information and Notes

2. Introduction • What is The Alchemist about? • Alchemist video

3. 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.

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

5. 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.

6. Philosopher’s Stone andThe 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.

7. 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.

8. 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

9. Setting • Santiago travels on a journey from ______________ to _____________ Andalusia/Tarifa Spain Tangier, Morocco Jerusalem, Israel

10. 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.

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