Part 2, Section 2: Summary

In this episode, Santiago joins a traveling caravan and finds himself interacting with an Englishman. Santiago learns that the Englishman has studied alchemy for years and is now making the journey to the Al-Fayoum oasis in the hopes of meeting the 200-year-old alchemist who resides there. It is believed that the elderly alchemist knows the secret of the Philosopher’s Stone and the Elixir of Life. The Englishman, Santiago finds out, wants to learn this secret from him. Initially the Englishman was dismissive of Santiago, as he took Santiago for an Arab. Later, when he notices Santiago reading Spanish books, he starts speaking to him. For his part, Santiago had regarded the Englishman as a reticent, unfriendly person. However, they discover their shared belief in omens when they realize that both are carrying their own Urim and Thummim stones. The Englishman believes that signs and omens are part of a universal language, and it is this language that he wishes to learn from the great alchemist of the oasis. As the caravan is about to leave for Al-Fayoum, Santiago tells him that he is searching for a hidden treasure, and the Englishman in turn admits to doing the same in his own way.

Part 2, Section 2: Analysis

The Englishman relies solely on bookish knowledge. Santiago, in stark contrast, learns from the experiences life throws his way. Despite studying for years, the Englishman has not mastered the art of alchemy, which explains his desire to seek out the famed, elderly alchemist. In his initial treatment of Santiago, the Englishman reveals himself to be a man shackled by his own prejudice. This is significant because it is the first time since the prologue that the alchemist is mentioned, and from here onward the plot focuses on the art of alchemy.