Siddhartha

Author:

Publisher: Standard Ebooks

Published:

ISBN: 9780553208849

Genre: literature

Pages: 129

Format: eBook

Language: en

Description

Siddhartha is a philosophical novel that follows the spiritual journey of a young man in ancient India as he seeks enlightenment and self-discovery.

Topics

Spiritual awakening, self-discovery, the nature of truth, the cycle of life, Eastern philosophy

Detailed Description

Hermann Hesse's 'Siddhartha' is a profound exploration of one man's quest for enlightenment in ancient India. Dissatisfied with conventional religious teachings, Siddhartha embarks on a transformative journey, encountering various spiritual paths and life experiences, from asceticism to worldly pleasures. The novel delves into the complexities of self-discovery, the illusion of time, and the interconnectedness of all things. Through rich symbolism and lyrical prose, Hesse invites readers to contemplate the meaning of life and the individual pursuit of inner peace and wisdom. 'Siddhartha' remains a timeless classic, cherished for its philosophical insights and its enduring message of spiritual fulfillment. This Standard Ebooks edition ensures a high-quality reading experience, honoring the text's literary significance.

About the Author

Hermann Hesse

Hermann Hesse (1877-1962) was a German-Swiss poet, novelist, and painter. He received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1946. Hesse's works often explore themes of self-discovery, spirituality, and the individual's search for meaning in a complex world. His notable works include 'Steppenwolf', 'Demian', and 'The Glass Bead Game'. Hesse's writings were heavily influenced by Eastern philosophy and Jungian psychology, reflecting a deep interest in the human psyche and the quest for personal enlightenment. He remains one of the most widely read and influential authors of the 20th century, revered for his lyrical prose and profound philosophical insights.

Key Characters

  • Siddhartha: The protagonist of the novel, a Brahmin's son who seeks enlightenment through various paths and experiences.
  • Govinda: Siddhartha's lifelong friend who seeks enlightenment through traditional religious teachings and unwavering devotion.
  • Kamala: A courtesan who teaches Siddhartha about love and worldly life.
  • Kamaswami: A wealthy merchant under whom Siddhartha works, representing the materialistic world.
  • Vasudeva: A wise ferryman who guides Siddhartha towards enlightenment through his understanding of the river.

Keywords

Siddhartha, Hermann Hesse, philosophical fiction, spiritual journey, enlightenment, self-discovery, ancient India, Brahmin, asceticism, materialism, wisdom, Buddha, Gotama, Nirvana, Sansara, Atman, Brahman, river, cycle of life, spiritual awakening, Eastern philosophy, self-denial, contemplation, meditation, self-knowledge, unity, duality, transcendence, karma, dharma, Maya, illusion, path to enlightenment, inner peace, meaning of life, personal transformation, spiritual growth, self-realization, the river as metaphor, Om, interconnectedness, Buddhist principles, Hindu concepts

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