RESEARCHING THE METHODS OF EXECUTING “THE ALCHEMIST” BY PAULO COELHO USING SYMBOLS TO CONVEY AN ADDITIONAL MESSAGE

Authors

  • Tran Anh Thu School of Foreign Languages, Can Tho University, Can Tho City, Vietnam
  • Thai Cong Dan Dr., Senior Lecturer, School of Foreign Languages, Can Tho University, Can Tho City, Vietnam
  • Thai Phan Bao Han Faculty of Social Sciences, Can Tho University of Technology, Can Tho City, Vietnam

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejls.v5i2.538

Keywords:

EFL students, symbol interpretation, qualitative research design, Paulo Coelho, “The Alchemist”

Abstract

This study aimed to provide English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students, teachers, researchers and readers in general with a deeper understanding of symbol interpretation, thereby fostering their cognitive development in learning, reading, and critical thinking. Through the analysis of symbols found in Paulo Coelho's novel "The Alchemist," students and readers can gain insights into complex literary themes and enhance their ability to engage critically with texts. Utilizing a qualitative research design with a focus on spiritual phenomena, discourse analysis was employed to identify and categorize 19 symbols present in the novel. These symbols were divided into three groups: symbols representing societal archetypes, symbols related to actions and behaviors, and symbols associated with spiritual matters, providing students with a comprehensive exploration of the deeper layers of meaning in the story. By delving into symbolism within the text, EFL students and readers can enhance their analytical skills, broaden their perspectives on literature, and ultimately enrich their overall learning experience.

 

Author Biographies

  • Tran Anh Thu, School of Foreign Languages, Can Tho University, Can Tho City, Vietnam

    Miss Tran Anh Thu obtained her BA in High-quality English Studies Program, School of Foreign Languages, Can Tho University (CTU), Vietnam in 2024. She is interested in doing research about linguistics, intercultural communication, English-American works, and learning and teaching English. She can be contacted at thub2005294@student.ctu.edu.vn

  • Thai Cong Dan, Dr., Senior Lecturer, School of Foreign Languages, Can Tho University, Can Tho City, Vietnam

    Mr. Thai Cong Dan, is currently senior lecturer of English, School of Foreign Languages, Can Tho University (CTU), Vietnam, -cum-a project manager. He has held his PhD at Naresuan University, Thailand since 2010 in Educational Administration (English program). He got his MA in Cultural aspects and Literature in University of Notre Dame du Lac, Indiana, USA in 1999. His main research interests are TEF/TESOL issues, intercultural communication, high school and higher education levels in English learning and teaching, English program management, curriculum design, testing and evaluation, ESP for Tourism, Political Education, Food Technology, professional development and educational administration. He can be reached at tcdan@ctu.edu.vn. His ORCID is at https://orcid.org/0009-0002-9566-8128.

  • Thai Phan Bao Han, Faculty of Social Sciences, Can Tho University of Technology, Can Tho City, Vietnam

    Miss Thai Phan Bao Han is presently an English lecturer at Can Tho University of Technology (CTUT). She has earned her MA in TESOL since 2022 from Can Tho University, Vietnam. Her main research interests are TEF/TESOL teaching and learning at any levels, linguistics, ESP for Technology and Engineering, Intercultural Communication (ICC), testing design and professional development. She can be contacted at tpbhan@ctuet.edu.vn.

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Published

2024-06-23

Issue

Vol. 5 No. 2 (2024)

Section

Articles

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