The document summarizes the characters and themes of the novel The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. It introduces the main character, Santiago, a shepherd who is inspired by King Melchizedek to sell his sheep and pursue his personal legend of discovering treasure in Egypt. Along the way, Santiago meets the Alchemist, who helps guide him, and Fatima, a woman he falls in love with. The theme of the novel is about following your dreams and not living in fear of taking chances, as pursuing your dreams leads to spiritual encounters. It also briefly summarizes the opening story in the novel about Narcissus and the lake reflecting his beauty.