Of Human Bondage: A Tale of Obsession and Self-Discovery
Of Human Bondage
Chapter 1 What's Of Human Bondage
"Of Human Bondage" is a semi-autobiographical novel written by British author William Somerset Maugham. First published in 1915, the book follows the life of Philip Carey, a young orphan who struggles with his physical disability, unrequited love, and his pursuit of meaning and happiness. The novel explores themes of personal freedom, passion, and the complexities of human relationships. "Of Human Bondage" is considered one of Maugham's most notable works and has been praised for its realistic portrayal of human nature and resilience.
Chapter 2 Why is Of Human Bondage Worth Read
Of Human Bondage by William Somerset Maugham is considered a classic and highly regarded novel for several reasons:
1. Deep exploration of human nature: The novel delves into the complexities of human emotions, relationships, and the struggles individuals face in their pursuit of happiness and self-discovery. It examines the themes of love, desire, ambition, and resilience, making it relatable and engaging for readers.
2. Beautifully crafted characters: Maugham creates complex and multi-dimensional characters that are incredibly realistic and memorable. The protagonist, Philip Carey, undergoes a transformative journey throughout the novel, allowing readers to connect with his experiences, flaws, and personal growth.
3. Immersive storytelling: Maugham's writing style is known for its rich descriptions, engaging narratives, and powerful storytelling. He paints vivid pictures of different settings and effectively captures the essence of human experiences, making the readers feel like they are part of the story.
4. Social commentary: Of Human Bondage tackles various social issues prevalent in the early 20th century, such as class and societal expectations. The novel prompts readers to reflect on these issues and how they impact individuals' lives, adding depth and substance to the story.
5. Timeless themes: Despite being published in 1915, the novel explores timeless and universal themes that remain relevant today. From the search for identity to struggles with self-acceptance and the pursuit of one's dreams, these themes resonate with readers across generations.
Overall, Of Human Bondage is worth reading as it provides a profound and thought-provoking experience through its well-crafted characters, engaging storytelling, and exploration of timeless human themes.
Chapter 3 Of Human Bondage Summary
Of Human Bondage is a semi-autobiographical novel written by W. Somerset Maugham and published in 1915. The story revolves around the life of Philip Carey, a young orphan with an insatiable desire for knowledge.
The novel begins with Philip's childhood, as he is sent to live with his strict and unsympathetic uncle and aunt. Despite his clubfoot, which causes him physical and emotional anguish, Philip is determined to lead a fulfilling life. He becomes deeply attached to his aunt, who dies shortly after his uncle's death, leaving him alone at the age of sixteen.
Philip then moves to London to study art, hoping to become a successful painter. However, he soon realizes that he lacks talent and abandons his artistic pursuits. In search of a career, Philip begins studying medicine, a decision based on pragmatism rather than passion. Throughout his studies, Philip battles self-doubt, loneliness, and financial hardships.
During his time in medical school, Philip meets Mildred Rogers, a vulgar and manipulative waitress. Despite her mistreatment and abusive behavior towards him, Philip becomes infatuated with Mildred and pursues her relentlessly. Their turbulent relationship becomes a central theme in the novel, as Philip repeatedly falls under Mildred's spell despite her mistreatment of him.
As time goes on, Philip encounters various characters who impact his life, such as Fanny Price, a terminally ill woman whose tragic end causes Philip to reassess his priorities, and Norah Nesbit, a kind and compassionate woman who forms a deep connection with him.
The novel chronicles Philip's journey of self-discovery and personal growth, as he grapples with his identity, relationships, and his struggle between reason and passion. Philip's journey ultimately leads him to confront the inherent complexities of human nature and the profound influence of personal desires and societal expectations.
Of Human Bondage explores themes of love, obsession, freedom, and personal fulfillment. It serves as a critique of societal norms and expectations, and illustrates the human capacity to be both bound by and liberated from the complexities of life.
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Chapter 4 Of Human Bondage Author
William Somerset Maugham was a renowned British playwright, novelist, and short-story writer. Born on January 25, 1874, in Paris, France, he passed away on December 16, 1965, in Nice, France.
Maugham released his acclaimed novel "Of Human Bondage" in 1915. The book follows the life of Philip Carey, a young man with a clubfoot who struggles with existential dilemmas, love, and artistic aspirations. "Of Human Bondage" is widely considered one of Maugham's best works and is regarded as a classic of English literature.
Apart from "Of Human Bondage," Maugham wrote numerous other notable books, some of which include:
1. "The Moon and Sixpence" (1919) - Inspired by the life of artist Paul Gauguin, the novel explores themes of art, passion, and sacrifice.
2. "The Razor's Edge" (1944) - This novel tells the story of a man's quest for meaning and spiritual enlightenment in the aftermath of World War I.
3. "The Painted Veil" (1925) - Set in colonial China, it is a tale of love, betrayal, and redemption.
4. "Cakes and Ale" (1930) - This satirical novel delves into the literary world, focusing on the lives of writers, critics, and their complex relationships.
While opinions on the best editions of Maugham's works may vary depending on personal preference, it is generally advised to opt for editions published by reputable and recognized publishers such as Penguin, Vintage Classics, or Everyman's Library. These editions often include helpful introductions, annotations, and supplementary material, providing a deeper understanding of the author and his works. Additionally, newer editions may incorporate any revisions or corrections made by the author himself during his lifetime.
Chapter 5 Of Human Bondage Meaning & Theme
Of Human Bondage Meaning
Of Human Bondage by William Somerset Maugham is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the themes of love, art, passion, and the search for meaning in life. The novel follows the life of Philip Carey, a young man with a clubfoot, as he navigates his way through various relationships, pursuits, and careers.
The title "Of Human Bondage" itself reflects the central theme of the novel, which is the idea that human beings are bound by various forces, both external and internal, that constrain and shape their lives. These forces can include societal expectations, personal desires, and the limitations of one's own physical or emotional condition.
Throughout the novel, Philip Carey struggles to find his true identity and purpose in life. He experiences unrequited love, disappointment in his chosen profession as an artist, and a constant search for fulfillment and happiness. His journey is marked by a series of failures and setbacks, but also moments of self-discovery and growth.
Maugham's novel captures the complexity of human emotions and the ways in which individuals are shaped by their experiences and relationships. It delves into the depths of human desire and the pursuit of personal freedom and self-expression.
In essence, "Of Human Bondage" explores the limitations and possibilities of the human condition, and ultimately suggests that it is through embracing both the joys and sorrows of life that one can find genuine meaning and fulfillment.
Of Human Bondage Theme
The main theme of "Of Human Bondage" by W. Somerset Maugham is the exploration of the complex nature of human relationships and how they can both liberate and confine individuals. The novel examines the different types of bondage that the protagonist, Philip Carey, experiences throughout his life.
One of the central aspects of bondage explored in the novel is the struggle between freedom and societal expectations. Philip is initially bound by the expectations placed on him by his overbearing and conservative aunt and uncle. Their influence leads him to pursue a career in accounting, which he despises. It is only when he breaks free from their expectations and pursues his passion for art that he begins to find fulfillment.
Another form of bondage is the emotional entanglements Philip experiences in his relationships. His infatuation with Mildred, a manipulative and heartless woman, leads him to engage in self-destructive behavior and be trapped in an unhealthy relationship. The novel delves into the destructive power of love and how its absence or rejection can lead to suffering and emotional bondage.
Additionally, the idea of bondage is explored through Philip's struggle with his physical disability, a clubfoot. His physical condition becomes a metaphor for his own sense of limitation and inferiority. He feels bound by his physicality, and it becomes a source of deep shame and self-doubt. However, as he learns to accept and make peace with his disability, he finds the strength to transcend his physical confines and pursue his true passions in life.
Overall, "Of Human Bondage" is a novel that delves into the various forms of bondage that individuals can experience. Through Philip's journey, Maugham explores themes of societal expectations, emotional entanglements, and physical limitations, highlighting the transformative power of self-discovery and personal liberation.
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Chapter 6 Other Accessible Resources
2. SparkNotes: SparkNotes offers a detailed analysis of "Of Human Bondage," including summaries and analysis for each chapter, character profiles, and discussion of themes and motifs. It also features study questions and suggested essay topics. Visit SparkNotes' website and search for "Of Human Bondage."
3. GradeSaver: GradeSaver provides study guides, literature essays, and an active community of contributors. They have a dedicated page for "Of Human Bondage" that includes chapter summaries, detailed character analysis, and a forum for discussions. Search for "Of Human Bondage GradeSaver" to find their resources.
4. Goodreads: Goodreads is an online platform for readers to discuss and review books. It provides access to a wide range of reviews, discussions, quotes, and ratings for "Of Human Bondage." The platform also suggests similar books and allows users to ask questions about specific books. Search for "Of Human Bondage Goodreads" to explore the available resources.
5. CliffsNotes: CliffsNotes offers comprehensive study guides for various literary works, including a guide for "Of Human Bondage." Their guide includes detailed chapter summaries, character analysis, essay topics, and different perspectives on the novel. Search for "CliffsNotes Of Human Bondage" to access their resources.
Note: Some resources may require creating an account or paying a fee to access certain content. Make sure to check for availability and any associated costs before proceeding.
Chapter 7 Quotes of Of Human Bondage
Of Human Bondage quotes as follows:
1. "It is an illusion that youth is happy, an illusion of those who have lost it; but the young know they are wretched, for they are full of the truthless ideals which have been instilled into them, and each time they come in contact with the real they are bruised and wounded."
2. "The fact is that self-pity is a luxury which no one can afford. In the whole history of the world no one has ever been comforted by self-pity; it is a luxury tendered to kings, made possible by the strong hand of authority."
3. "The well-used phrase that "the one person in the world who can make you happy is yourself" seems to me only an ironic twisting of the truth, for every human being is dependent for their happiness on countless others."
4. "You carry your love of women too far; she said, looking at him with a little smile in her eyes."
5. "But there are other things, also, besides money there is the charm of success; men wave their hats to success, women are ready to put success on their bosoms. You strive for something in life, but you do not find it; you strive and strive, but it eludes you, and all that is left for you is disappointment and despair."
6. "I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat."
7. "I have an idea that some men are born out of their due place. Accident has cast them amid certain surroundings, but they have always a nostalgia for a home they know not. They are strangers in their birthplace, and the leafy lanes they have known from childhood or the populous streets in which they have played, remain but a place of passage. They may spend their whole lives aliens among their kindred and remain aloof among the only scenes they have ever known. Perhaps it is this sense of strangeness that sends men far and wide in the search for something permanent, to which they may attach themselves. Perhaps some deep-rooted atavism urges the wanderer back to lands which his ancestors left in the dim beginnings of history."
8. "There are moments when a man's imagination, so easily subdued to what it lives in, suddenly rises above its daily level and surveys the long windings of destiny."
9. "I don't know why things shouldn't be more pleasant than disagreeable."
10. "Old age has its pleasures, which, though different, are not less than the pleasures of youth."
Chapter 8 Similar Books Like Of Human Bondage
1. "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger
Holden Caulfield's journey through adolescence and his struggle with the complexities of adulthood makes it a compelling and relatable read, similar to Philip Carey's journey in "Of Human Bondage."
2. "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald's masterpiece explores themes of obsession, wealth, and the American Dream. It shares a similar vein with "Of Human Bondage" in its examination of longing, desire, and the pursuit of an elusive ideal.
3. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
Just as "Of Human Bondage" delves into themes of self-discovery and the exploration of our place in society, Lee's masterpiece tackles racial injustice, morality, and the loss of innocence, making it a must-read for any fan of Maugham's novel.
4. "1984" by George Orwell
Orwell's dystopian novel is known for its examination of totalitarianism and the power of language. Like "Of Human Bondage," it delves into the complexities of human nature and the struggle for autonomy and freedom.
5. "The Picture of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde
Wilde's classic explores the themes of beauty, morality, and the pursuit of pleasure. Its examination of the human condition, similar to "Of Human Bondage," raises questions about the choices we make and the consequences they have on our lives.
These books, although distinct in their own right, share thematic similarities with "Of Human Bondage." From the exploration of personal growth, societal constraints, and the human experience, each recommendation offers readers insightful and thought-provoking narratives.