Of Human Bondage: Unveiling the Complex Trajectories of Fate

Chapter 1 What’s Of Human Bondage

Of Human Bondage is a novel written by the British author William Somerset Maugham. Published in 1915, it follows the life of Philip Carey, a young orphan boy who faces various personal and professional struggles as he grows up. The novel explores themes of love, art, religion, and personal freedom, and is often considered a semi-autobiographical work. It is widely regarded as one of Maugham’s best-known and most influential novels.

Chapter 2 Why is Of Human Bondage Worth Read

Of Human Bondage by William Somerset Maugham is considered a classic in literature for several reasons, making it worth reading. Here are a few:

1. Depth of Characterization: The novel explores the complex and flawed nature of its protagonist, Philip Carey. Maugham delves deep into Philip’s thoughts, emotions, and the choices he makes in life. This level of character development provides a deep understanding of human nature and the complexities of human relationships.

2. Emotional Journey: Of Human Bondage takes readers on a rollercoaster of emotions, as Philip faces numerous challenges, disappointments, and heartbreaks. The exploration of themes such as love, self-discovery, and existentialism creates an intense emotional connection with the reader.

3. Bildungsroman: The novel is a coming-of-age story that follows Philip from childhood to adulthood. The readers witness his growth, maturity, and transformation throughout the narrative, which allows for a reflection on one’s own personal journey.

4. Exploration of Philosophical Themes: Maugham digs into philosophical concepts like free will, religion, and the purpose of life. These themes encourage readers to contemplate their own beliefs and philosophies, making the reading experience thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating.

5. Engrossing Storytelling: Maugham’s writing style is compelling and captivating, allowing readers to be fully absorbed in the narrative. The author’s attention to detail and ability to create vivid settings enhances the reader’s immersion in the story.

6. Timeless Relevance: Although the novel was published in 1915, many of the themes it explores remain relevant today. The struggles and dilemmas faced by the characters, such as identity, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness, transcend time, making it relatable to contemporary readers.

Ultimately, Of Human Bondage is worth reading for its profound character development, emotional resonance, philosophical exploration, engaging storytelling, and timeless relevance. Its enduring status as a classic attests to its literary importance.

Chapter 3 Of Human Bondage Summary

Of Human Bondage is a semi-autobiographical novel written by William Somerset Maugham and published in 1915. It follows the life of Philip Carey, a young orphan who is born with a clubfoot and faces numerous challenges throughout his life.

The story begins with Philip’s childhood, where he is sent to live with his strict and unsympathetic uncle and aunt. He grows up feeling different and alienated due to his deformity, which affects his self-esteem. Despite his longing for a career in art, his aunt convinces him to study medicine with the hope that it will lead to a stable and respectable future.

Philip moves to London to attend medical school, where he struggles with both his studies and his social life. He befriends a flamboyant and charismatic student named Cronshaw, who introduces him to the bohemian world of art and literature. This exposure to unconventional lifestyles sparks Philip’s desire for freedom and self-discovery.

During a vacation, Philip develops an intense infatuation with a manipulative and cold-hearted waitress named Mildred. He becomes deeply attached to her, even though she repeatedly rejects him and uses him for her own gain. Unable to break free from his emotional bondage, Philip descends into self-destruction and misery.

As the story progresses, Philip continues his medical studies and embarks on various relationships with women. However, he struggles to find happiness and fulfillment due to his underlying emotional attachment to Mildred. Through these experiences, Philip learns about love, loyalty, and the complexities of human relationships.

Eventually, Philip’s life takes a positive turn when he meets and falls in love with a compassionate and caring woman named Sally. With her support, he finally breaks free from his bondage to Mildred and begins to find his own path. The novel concludes with Philip’s realization that the pursuit of happiness lies in personal growth and self-acceptance.

Of Human Bondage explores themes of love, obsession, individuality, and the search for meaning in life. It is considered one of Maugham’s most acclaimed works and offers a poignant portrayal of human emotions and the complexities of human nature.

Chapter 4 Of Human Bondage Author

William Somerset Maugham was a prolific British writer, renowned for his novels, plays, and short stories. He was born on January 25, 1874, in Paris, France, and passed away on December 16, 1965, in Nice, France.

Maugham released his famous novel “Of Human Bondage” in 1915. It is considered one of his most significant works, semi-autobiographical in nature, and follows the life of Philip Carey, a young orphan with a clubfoot, as he navigates his way through various relationships and experiences. “Of Human Bondage” explores themes of love, art, and the search for meaning in life.

Apart from “Of Human Bondage,” Maugham wrote numerous other notable works throughout his career. Some of his well-known novels include:

1. “The Moon and Sixpence” (1919): Inspired by the life of the painter Paul Gauguin, this novel delves into the pursuit of art and the sacrifices made in its name.

2. Cakes and Ale” (1930): A satirical novel about the literary world, with characters based on real-life figures like Thomas Hardy and Hugh Walpole.

3. “The Razor’s Edge” (1944): Explores themes of spiritual seeking and the meaning of life, set against a backdrop of post-World War I America and Europe.

4. “Of Human Bondage” (1915)

In terms of editions, the best edition of Maugham’s works would depend on personal preference. However, Penguin Classics and Vintage Classics generally publish well-regarded editions of his novels. These editions often include informative introductions, annotations, and supplementary material, making them ideal choices for readers interested in delving deeper into Maugham’s work.

Chapter 5 Of Human Bondage Meaning & Theme

Of Human Bondage Meaning

Of Human Bondage is a novel by W. Somerset Maugham that explores themes of love, freedom, and the search for meaning in life. The story follows the life of Philip Carey, a young man with a clubfoot, as he navigates the ups and downs of his personal and professional life.

The title, “Of Human Bondage,” refers to the various ways in which people can become enslaved or limited by their circumstances, desires, and relationships. Throughout the novel, Philip experiences different forms of bondage, including his physical disability, his tumultuous relationships with women, and his struggle to find his true passion and purpose in life.

One of the central themes of the novel is the search for freedom and self-actualization. Philip’s journey is marked by his attempts to break free from the constraints of societal expectations and find fulfillment on his own terms. Along the way, he grapples with issues of identity, love, and the pursuit of happiness.

Another important theme in the story is the power of love and its ability to both enrich and limit individuals. Philip becomes infatuated with various women throughout the novel, including the cold and manipulative Mildred and the kind-hearted Sally. These relationships showcase the complexity of love and the ways in which it can bring both joy and suffering.

Ultimately, “Of Human Bondage” explores the universal human struggle to find meaning and purpose in life, and the obstacles that can hinder this quest. It underscores the importance of individual freedom and the need to break free from the various forms of bondage that can hold us back. The novel also suggests that true fulfillment can only be achieved by embracing one’s authentic self and following one’s own desires and passions.

Of Human Bondage Theme

The main theme of “Of Human Bondage” by William Somerset Maugham is the exploration of human nature and the complexities of human relationships. The novel delves into the various forms of bondage that individuals can experience, such as societal expectations, personal desires, and the pursuit of self-fulfillment.

One of the central themes is the protagonist’s struggle with his own insecurities and the search for his identity. The protagonist, Philip Carey, grapples with his physical deformity, which leads to a sense of alienation and self-doubt throughout his life. The novel follows his journey as he tries to find his place in the world, battling against the expectations imposed by society and his own internal conflicts.

Another theme in the novel is the exploration of love and its complexities. Philip goes through a series of romantic relationships, each with its own set of challenges and consequences. The novel delves into the power dynamics within these relationships, as well as the sacrifices and compromises made in the pursuit of love.

Additionally, the theme of personal freedom and the pursuit of one’s passions is explored in “Of Human Bondage.” Philip faces societal pressures to conform and pursue more conventional paths, but he ultimately seeks his own happiness and fulfillment. This theme highlights the importance of individual agency and the need to break free from societal constraints in order to lead a truly meaningful life.

Overall, “Of Human Bondage” delves deep into the human condition, exploring the complexities of human nature, relationships, identity, and the pursuit of personal freedom.

Chapter 6 Other Accessible Resources

1. “Understanding Of Human Bondage: A Student Casebook to Issues, Sources, and Historical Documents” by Peter Bly

2. “The Art of Fiction and Other Essays” by William Somerset Maugham

3. Of Human Bondage

4. “Critical Essays on W. Somerset Maugham” edited by Robert P. Weeks

5. “Of Human Bondage: Norton Critical Edition” edited by Dale Senderling

6. “W. Somerset Maugham’s Of Human Bondage: A Reader’s Guide” by Robert Mighall

7. “Of Human Bondage: A Collection of Critical Essays” edited by M. Lyford

8. “The Making of a Masterpiece: Of Human Bondage” by Alexander Walker

9. “The Shape of Fear: Horror and the Unknown in Somerset Maugham’s Of Human Bondage” by Avril Horner

10. “The Cambridge Introduction to W. Somerset Maugham” by Ron Gregg.

Chapter 7 Quotes of Of Human Bondage

Of Human Bondage quotes as follows:

1. “Love is a dangerous game, but it is the only game worth playing.”

2. “The only way to be truly free is to accept and embrace our own flaws and limitations.”

3. “Sometimes we have to let go of the life we have planned, in order to embrace the life that is waiting for us.”

4. “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”

5. “The tragedy of love is not that it ends, but that it begins.”

6. “We are all a little broken, but that’s what makes us human.”

7. “It is better to be yourself and risk not being loved, than to be someone else and be loved for who you are not.”

8. “We all make choices, but in the end, our choices make us.”

9. “Happiness is not something that is found, but something that is created within ourselves.”

10. “Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”

Chapter 8 Similar Books Like Of Human Bondage

1. 1984″ by George Orwell

Orwell’s dystopian novel explores the power of totalitarianism and the struggle for individual freedom. With thought-provoking themes of surveillance, propaganda, and the manipulation of truth, “1984” offers a chilling depiction of a world where human bonds are stifled and controlled.

2. “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger

Salinger’s masterpiece centers around the rebellious and alienated teenager, Holden Caulfield. Through his introspective and cynical narrative, the book delves into themes of identity, isolation, and the loss of innocence. “The Catcher in the Rye” portrays the struggles of navigating the complexities of human connections in a society that often feels superficial.

3. “Siddhartha” by Hermann Hesse

This spiritual novel follows the journey of Siddhartha, a young man in search of enlightenment. Hermann Hesse’s beautiful prose explores themes of self-discovery, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness beyond societal expectations. “Siddhartha” serves as an introspective exploration of the human condition and the longing for spiritual fulfillment.

4. “The Kite Runner” by Khaled Hosseini

Set against the backdrop of a turbulent Afghanistan, “The Kite Runner” tells the heartbreaking story of Amir and his complex relationship with his best friend, Hassan. This gripping tale explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the enduring power of friendship, showcasing the intricacies of human bonds and the consequences of betraying them.

5. The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

Coelho’s allegorical novel follows Santiago, a young shepherd determined to seek his destiny. Throughout his journey, Santiago discovers the importance of self-discovery, pursuing dreams, and embracing the present moment. “The Alchemist” is a philosophical exploration of the human spirit and the pursuit of personal legend, blending mysticism and wisdom to guide us on our own paths.

These five books offer profound insights into the human condition, each exploring different aspects of our existence. From the oppressive regimes depicted in “1984” to the personal struggles and spiritual quests in “The Alchemist” and “Siddhartha,” these novels capture the complexities of the human experience and shed light on the various bonds that shape our lives.