Beyond the Mirage of Self-Discovery: A Critical Examination of Santiago’s Growth in The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho through Self-Determination Theory and Logical Fallacy Analysis

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of Paulo Coelho’s The Alchemist, analyzing its depiction of self-discovery and Santiago’s journey through the lenses of literary criticism and psychological theory. The research aims to (1) analyze the process of self-discovery in The Alchemist, (2) assess whether Santiago’s journey aligns with Self-Determination Theory (SDT)’s principles of realistic personal growth, and (3) examine the logical fallacies embedded in the narrative and their implications for Santiago’s perception. To achieve these objectives, this study employs qualitative literary analysis, drawing upon SDT to examine the novel’s treatment of autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Additionally, logical fallacy analysis is used to investigate how reasoning errors, such as false cause and oversimplification, shape Santiago’s perception of his journey. Comparative analysis with classic Bildungsromane further contextualizes the novel’s portrayal of self-discovery. The findings reveal that while The Alchemist presents an inspiring vision of self-discovery, it diverges from traditional Bildungsroman conventions by emphasizing fate, external guidance, and mystical intervention rather than internal struggle and self-determined growth. Unlike other protagonists who experience deep existential crises, Santiago’s transformation is largely externally validated, raising questions about the novel’s depiction of agency and personal development. The study also highlights how the novel’s reliance on logical fallacies influences how readers may perceive self-discovery as a simplistic and predestined process rather than a complex, non-linear journey. Despite its contributions to motivational literature, the study acknowledges certain limitations, such as the subjective nature of literary interpretation and the absence of empirical reader-response analysis. However, the research offers valuable insights into how The Alchemist constructs its philosophical message and its implications for understanding self-discovery. By bridging literary criticism and psychological theory, this study highlights the novel’s strengths and limitations, contributing to broader discussions on the role of fiction in shaping personal growth narratives.