Final answer:
Coelho's introduction of Santiago's love interest adds complexity to his quest, highlighting themes of sacrifice, destiny, and self-discovery.
Step-by-step explanation:
When Coelho introduces Santiago to his love object in the middle of his search for his Personal Legend, it adds a layer of complexity to Santiago's journey, symbolizing the conflict between personal desires and destiny. It serves several purposes in the narrative: it humanizes the protagonist, enriches the story with emotional depth, and enhances the tension and drama by presenting Santiago with a dilemma that tests his commitment to his Personal Legend. The reader is shown that the pursuit of one's dreams often involves sacrifices and difficult choices, making Santiago's quest a more relatable and profound experience. The introduction of love in his quest raises the stakes and compels Santiago to consider what he values most, ultimately reinforcing the central themes of destiny, sacrifice, and self-discovery in 'The Alchemist'.