The Meaning of Nature for Santiago in His Efforts to Find the Real Happiness in The Alchemist

Abstract

Santiago, the main character in the novel The Alchemist, is trying to find the real happiness in his life. Having dreamt of exactly the same thing twice, he wants to have his dreams come true. He is eager to find the hidden treasure that was shown in the Egyptian Pyramids in his dreams since he has the faith he will not be able to be happy and peaceful, unless he could find the hidden treasure. Using the literary philosophy theory on transcendentalism, particularly Emerson’s theory written in McKinnon’s (1985) book, this article discusses how nature can help Santiago in his process of finding the real happiness, namely the hidden treasure, in his life. Though he has to undergo a great deal of difficulties, threats, and dangers in his effort to find the treasure, he eventually succeeds in finding the treasure; namely the girl he loves dearly and his own happiness.