Who El Hakim is
El Hakim arrives at the crusader camp while Richard the Lionheart lies weakened by fever. He calls himself El Hakim, a name that simply means the doctor. His quiet, learned manner stands apart from the quarrelling leaders around him.
What El Hakim wants
He offers to heal Richard when the king's own doctors cannot help him. His treatment uses a talisman dipped in water, which the patient then drinks. For the physician, the charm is a tool he has used successfully before.
El Hakim and the others in the story
The Christian lords suspect that a physician from the enemy's side might be a poisoner. Richard chooses to accept the treatment despite the fears of his advisers. Kenneth, already acquainted with a courteous Saracen, is more willing than many others to trust the visitor.
As Richard begins to recover, the physician gains a place in the king's trust. His presence gives Scott another way to explore trust across religious divisions.
Questions
Who is El Hakim in The Talisman?
El Hakim is the Muslim healer who offers medical help to the sick King Richard.
What does El Hakim's talisman do?
It is said to give healing power to water when dipped into it. El Hakim gives the prepared water to Richard as treatment for his fever.
Why do the crusaders distrust El Hakim?
They fear that a Muslim physician might poison their king rather than cure him. His talisman also raises suspicions of magic.