Final answer:
Santiago and the Englishman's dispute over alchemy illustrates the conflict between viewing knowledge as simple yet profound versus complex and detailed. Santiago's belief echoes the mystical simplicity of the Emerald Tablet, while the Englishman emphasizes the need for a more intricate understanding of alchemy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The argument between Santiago and the Englishman about the complexity of alchemy represents a deeper philosophical debate about knowledge and understanding. Santiago, who adheres to the notion that the simplest things are the most extraordinary, believes that truth and wisdom can be concise and straightforward, which aligns with the mystical essence of the Emerald Tablet in alchemic lore. On the other hand, the Englishman represents a more analytical approach, insisting on the complexity and detailed understanding required in the practice of alchemy. This reflects a tension between an intuitive, almost spiritual understanding of the world and a methodical, scientific approach to knowledge.
However, the Englishman's exasperation with Santiago's simplicity could be a reflection of his own limitations. Alchemy itself is a blend of science and mysticism, where understanding does not always come from complexity. The various literary excerpts exemplify the different approaches to knowledge, from Aylmer's ambitious scientific pursuit to the bafflement over simple yet profound occurrences in nature and human affairs.