IndexIntroductionThe Sacrifice of Familiarity: The Beginning of the Personal LegendChange and Growth in The AlchemistConclusionWorks CitedIntroductionChange is a universal concept that transcends boundaries, touching the lives of individuals throughout the world. The impact of change is undeniable, whether it is welcomed or imposed. Paulo Coelho, the author of "The Alchemist", explores the theme of change in his novel, highlighting its significance in personal development. In The Alchemist, personal legend serves as a driving force for the protagonist, Santiago, as he consciously abandons his mundane existence as a shepherd. Through Santiago's journey, Coelho illuminates the concept that embracing change is vital to individual growth and the pursuit of one's true purpose. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Sacrifice of Familiarity: The Beginning of Personal Legend To begin with, Santiago, originally a shepherd, decides to sell his sheep so he can embark on his journey to go to the pyramids and find the treasure he saw in his dreams . Even though Santiago is very emotionally attached to his sheep and “knew everything about every member of his flock” (Coelho 29) he decides to sell them to his friend because he realizes that there will be no way for him to achieve the riches he desires. searches without changing his current way of life. Even though it hurts Santiago to let go of the sense of friendship he found in the sheep during their travels together, he knows it's right to get rid of it. “My friend immediately bought all the other sheep” (Coelho 31). He sells all his sheep to his friend and gives 6 to the king of Salem as payment for the advice the king gives to Santiago. He chooses to abandon his sheep even though he has become accustomed to them and even enjoys their company. By leaving his sheep behind even as he cares for them, Santiago shows that he values ​​his journey to becoming a better person more than he values ​​the sense of comfort and friendship he finds when he is with his sheep. Change and Growth in The Alchemist Letting go of his sheep and his identity as a shepherd allows Santiago to become a more independent person who does not need to be held back by the animals he is accustomed to. When Santiago leaves his sheep he shows that he must leave what he is used to and change his lifestyle to achieve the internal metamorphosis he is now seeking. Additionally, Santiago leaves Tarifa, Spain, and boards a ship bound for Tangier, Morocco, leaving behind the land he has always known. He leaves Spain in the hope of finding his treasure in Africa. Santiago leaves his homeland, despite being frightened by the prospect of being in an unknown place. “If he sold even one of his sheep, he would have enough to reach the other side of the strait. The idea frightened him” (Coelho 28). Santiago is afraid of finally obtaining the freedom he has always sought. He dives into the unknown despite his fears demonstrating his resilience in achieving his "personal legend" or what he is destined to do. Santiago's choice to move from Spain to Africa demonstrates that change is imperative to achieve growth. “He had to choose between something he had become accustomed to and something he wanted to have” (Coelho 30). Santiago had to choose between staying in Spain and keeping his life the same or going to Africa and pursuing change. If he had stayed in Spain, he would not have had the opportunity to grow and learn from all the people he meets in Africa, like the crystal merchant who teaches him the dangers of not following his., 2015.