discuss the characters in alchemist.

Gradesaver has an excellent analysis of the characters in the Alchemist in its study guide. I've provided a link for you below;

You can also find character information at the following sites;

http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/the-alchemist/characters.html

http://thebestnotes.com/booknotes/Alchemist_Coelho/Alchemist-Study-Guide-Summary23.html

http://www.cliffsnotes.com/study_guide/literature/The-Alchemist-Character-List.id-284,pageNum-2.html