The Alchemist represents a bildungsroman as it illustrates the coming-of-age of a shepherd boy, Santiago. When he encounters the Gypsy and the king, Santiago understands his personal legend does not involve the sheep. Thus, he set out on a journey to find his personal legend as the king advices him. As he arrives in Africa, he lost all his money and hope. Nevertheless, he learns to view this event positively and finds hope for the future. Furthermore, on this journey, Santiago meets various people, the crystal merchant, the Englishman, and the alchemist, who teach him something about life. The crystal merchant and Englishman are examples of people who do not know the Language of the World; therefore, they can never find their destinies. Santiago learns what not to be from these two characters while he learns what he must do to reach his destiny from the alchemist. The alchemist teaches Santiago to use his heart in order to find courage and to speak the Language of the World. When he understands his heart, Santiago finds his treasure and understands the world.
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