Hermann Hesse
Siddhartha (1951)
Author: Hermann Hesse
Genre: Literary/Spiritual (Buddhism)
Plot Summary:
Siddhartha Gotama is born into the privileged life of an Indian Brahmin. He is revered and loved by all in his village. He learns wisdom at the knees of wise men and has teachers brought to him to increase his knowledge; however, he is not happy with this life and desires more knowledge. Siddhartha converses with Govinda, his best friend, and advises Govinda that on the morrow he is leaving the village to join the Samanas, a group of ascetic men who live in the jungle practicing self-flagellation, fasting, and other practices of self-denial. Govinda and Siddhartha live with the Samanas for three years in the forest, until Govinda convinces Siddhartha to go and hear the teachings of the Great Buddha. While Govinda joins Buddha's monks, Siddharta continues his personal quest for knowledge. The next stage in Siddhartha's life takes him to the depths of lust, greed, and commerce. He looses himself with the Courtesan Kamala and in the end creates a child with her. One day after many many years of town life he wakes as if from a dream and realizes that he has lost his soul in vice. He meditates under a mango tree and rejects his life of vice and greed. Finally, in his final search for wisdom and self he becomes a ferryman and through listening to a great river, he discovers his personal wisdom and lives through the circle of his life and pain. Siddhartha meets Govinda again while taking him across the river. The men talk and Govinda realizes that Siddhartha has attained his own personal spirituality and wisdom of self.
Geographical Setting: India, jungle, and towns
Time Period: In the time of the Buddha (5th century B.C.E.)
Appeal Characteristics:
The tone is very intellectual and theoretical. It was not fast paced or too slow. The reader feels compelled to follow Siddhartha in his search for wisdom and the understanding of self. The audience interested in Eastern religions and culture will find this a compelling read. It is also a great story for relating the philosophical circle of life theory common in some religions.
Red Flags: There is a certain amount of self-castigation and flagellation by both Siddhartha and Govinda his friend. They deny themselves food, shelter, and clothing. This in not a gentle read even though their self-denials are related to their spiritual health. There is also a long running sexual relationship with a courtesan.
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