Final answer:
The geographical setting at the beginning of 'The Alchemist' is in the Andalusian region of Spain, where the young shepherd Santiago rests with his flock at an abandoned church, setting the tone for his adventure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The geographical setting at the beginning of the novel 'The Alchemist' is in the Andalusian region of Spain. We are introduced to a young shepherd named Santiago who rests with his flock at an abandoned church. The church has a sycamore tree growing in the place where the sacristy once stood. The setting not only grounds the novel in a physical location but also establishes a spiritual and dream-like tone, as Santiago experiences a recurring dream about finding treasure in Egypt. This dream sets him on his journey, making the setting the starting point for the protagonist's quest. The descriptive narrative immerses the reader in the surroundings and the protagonist's life, setting the stage for themes of adventure, personal discovery, and transformation.