The Subplot of the Caravan's Journey

The caravan as a microcosm of society, with its own rules, dangers, and the collective experience of crossing the desert.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Caravan's Departure

The Gathering The Assembly Almost two hundred people and four hundred animals gather. The leader gives a speech about obedience. The Swearing of Oaths Each traveler swears by their own God to follow orders. The caravan is a community bound by trust. The Start A bugle sounds, and they set off. The journey begins.

The Silence of the Desert

The Routine The Daily Rhythm Travel in the morning, rest at noon, resume in the afternoon. The desert is silent. The Languages Guides speak little. The caravan becomes one with the desert. The Camaraderie At night, stories are told around fires. Santiago bonds with the camel driver.

The Threat of War

The Danger Increases The Bedouins Hooded men appear with warnings. The caravan becomes tense. The Precautions No fires at night, sentinels posted. The mood changes. The Fear Every groan of a camel signals danger. The caravan is a target.

Arrival at the Oasis

The Relief The Sighting They see the date palms. Joy erupts. The Neutral Ground They are safe from war. The oasis is a refuge. The Dispersal The caravan dissolves; each traveler finds a place. The journey of the caravan is over.

The Caravan Stuck at the Oasis

The Delay The Leader's Announcement The war may last years. The caravan cannot continue. The Resolution Some travelers will stay, others may return. The caravan's purpose is suspended. The End of the Subplot The caravan no longer serves as the vehicle for Santiago's journey. He leaves with the alchemist.

from Tangier

during the journey

later in the journey

Al-Fayoum

during the war