Of Human Bondage by Somerset Maugham (1915)

 

Introduction

If you are a fan of classic literature, then you have probably heard of "Of Human Bondage" by Somerset Maugham. This novel has been widely regarded as one of the greatest works of the 20th century, and it is a must-read for anyone who is interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships, identity, and self-discovery. In this blog post, we will provide you with an introduction to "Of Human Bondage" and discuss why it is a book that you should definitely read.

About the Writer

William Somerset Maugham (1874-1965) was a British novelist, playwright, and short-story writer. He was one of the most popular writers of his time, and his works have been translated into more than 30 languages. Maugham was also a highly successful playwright, and several of his plays have been turned into successful films.

Characters

The main character of "Of Human Bondage" is Philip Carey, a young boy who is orphaned at an early age and sent to live with his uncle in London. Philip is a sensitive and intelligent boy, but he is also plagued by a physical deformity that makes him feel like an outcast. Over the course of the novel, we see Philip grow up and struggle to find his place in the world. Along the way, he meets a variety of characters, including Mildred Rogers, a waitress with whom he has a tumultuous and destructive relationship.

Summary

"Of Human Bondage" is a coming-of-age novel that explores the themes of love, freedom, and personal identity. The novel follows the life of Philip Carey, from his childhood in London to his adulthood as a struggling artist in Paris. Throughout the novel, Philip grapples with his own limitations and the limitations imposed upon him by society. He falls in love with Mildred Rogers, a waitress who is emotionally unstable and manipulative. Despite the fact that she treats him poorly, he is unable to break free of her hold on him. In the end, Philip must learn to accept himself for who he is and embrace his own limitations in order to find true happiness.

Themes

One of the central themes of "Of Human Bondage" is the search for personal identity. Throughout the novel, Philip struggles to understand who he is and where he fits in the world. He is constantly searching for a sense of belonging and purpose, but he is also aware of his own limitations. Another important theme is the destructive power of love. Philip's relationship with Mildred is passionate and intense, but it is also destructive and ultimately leads to his downfall.

Analysis

"Of Human Bondage" is a complex and nuanced novel that explores a wide range of themes and ideas. Maugham's writing is both lyrical and insightful, and he has a keen eye for human nature. The novel is also notable for its vivid and memorable characters, particularly the troubled and manipulative Mildred Rogers. Overall, "Of Human Bondage" is a powerful and thought-provoking work that deserves to be read and studied by anyone who is interested in the complexities of human relationships and identity.

Benefit of Reading this Book

Reading "Of Human Bondage" can provide readers with a greater understanding of the complexities of human relationships and the search for personal identity. The novel is also a powerful meditation on the destructive power of love and the importance of accepting oneself for who they are. By reading "Of Human Bondage," readers can gain a greater appreciation for the complexities of the human experience and the power of literature to explore the deepest questions of human existence.

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