The Alchemist (Coelho) Lesson Plan

Reflect on "fear of failure." How does this theme show up in the book? What does the alchemist say about it? How does it play a role in the Englishman's life? Does it affect Santiago?

The alchemist says that the one thing that keeps people from realizing their personal legend is fear of failure. It keeps them from taking the actions that they need to learn and grow and move closer to their goals. The Englishman says he let fear of failure keep him from fully committing to his work. The glass merchant let the fear of failure stop him from expanding his business.

Santiago faces fear of failure each time he looks at the possibility of never making it back to the oasis. Each...