Who is the author of 'Of Human Bondage'?

The author of 'Of Human Bondage' is W. Somerset Maugham.

What are the main themes in 'Of Human Bondage'?

The main themes in 'Of Human Bondage' include Modern Literature, Literature, Literary Fiction.

What genre is 'Of Human Bondage'?

'Of Human Bondage' is categorized as Literature.

What are the main themes of 'Of Human Bondage'?

The main themes of 'Of Human Bondage' include: The Search for Identity: The protagonist, Philip Carey, struggles with his sense of self and his place in the world, grappling with his emotional and intellectual development. The Nature of Love: The novel explores different forms of love, including infatuation, obsession, and the impact of unrequited love on Philip's life. Social Class and Class Conflict: Maugham examines the distinctions between social classes and the influence of class on personal relationships and aspirations. The Struggle for Freedom: The title itself suggests a struggle for both physical and emotional freedom, as characters seek to escape their own personal limitations and societal constraints. Art and Creativity: The pursuit of art and the complexity of the creative process are examined through Philip's aspirations as an artist, highlighting the tension between personal expression and external expectations. Existentialism and Meaning of Life: The novel reflects existential themes, examining the search for meaning and the randomness of life experiences.

Who is the protagonist of the novel and what challenges does he face?

The protagonist of 'Of Human Bondage' is Philip Carey, a young man with a clubfoot who grapples with various challenges throughout his life. He faces physical and emotional struggles stemming from his disability, which influences his self-esteem and social interactions. Philip also encounters existential dilemmas as he searches for purpose and fulfillment, particularly in his turbulent relationships, especially with women like Mildred, who becomes an obsessive focus for him but ultimately leads to heartache. Additionally, he confronts societal expectations, the quest for artistic identity, and the complexities of love and human connection.

How does Maugham explore the concept of human relationships in the book?

In 'Of Human Bondage,' W. Somerset Maugham explores the concept of human relationships through the experiences of the protagonist, Philip Carey. The novel delves into various types of relationships, including familial bonds, friendships, and romantic entanglements, illustrating the complexities and often painful nature of these connections. Maugham portrays the deep impact of upbringing on relationships, particularly through Philip's troubled relationship with his overbearing aunt and his longing for acceptance. The novel also examines the theme of unrequited love, particularly through Philip's infatuation with Mildred, a woman who embodies both Philip's desires and disappointments. Maugham uses Philip's interactions with different characters to highlight themes of dependency, freedom, and betrayal, suggesting that human relationships are marked by a constant struggle between desire and self-fulfillment. This exploration leads to a broader commentary on the nature of human existence, emphasizing that, while relationships can lead to personal growth, they can also result in suffering and disillusionment. Overall, Maugham presents human relationships as fundamental to the human experience, filled with contradictions and complexities.

In what ways does the setting influence the characters' lives in 'Of Human Bondage'?

In 'Of Human Bondage,' the setting plays a crucial role in influencing the characters' lives in several ways: Socioeconomic Factors: The novel is set in early 20th century England, a time when class and social status significantly impacted individual opportunities and relationships. Philip Carey's struggles as an orphan with a clubfoot are compounded by his lower-middle-class background, influencing his aspirations and social interactions. Cultural Environment: The settings, including the boarding school, art school, and various locations in London and Paris, provide a backdrop for Philip's quest for identity. The artistic community in Paris exposes him to new ideas and relationships, shaping his worldview and artistic ambitions. Influence of Nature: The contrasting natural settings in England, such as the serene countryside versus the bustling urban environment, reflect Philip's internal conflicts. For instance, moments of emotional clarity often occur in tranquil natural settings, contrasting with the chaos of city life that represents his struggles and discontent. Impact of War: The backdrop of World War I affects the characters' lives, highlighting themes of loss, disillusionment, and the fragility of human bonds. The war serves as a catalyst for character development and moral choices in the story. Overall, the setting in 'Of Human Bondage' is intricately woven into the narrative, shaping the characters' actions, relationships, and personal growth throughout the novel.

What is the significance of the title 'Of Human Bondage'?

The title 'Of Human Bondage' signifies the various forms of limitations and restrictions that individuals experience in life, whether they are emotional, social, or existential. It reflects the central theme of the novel, which explores the protagonist Philip Carey's struggles with personal desires, societal expectations, and the constraints of his circumstances. The term 'bondage' symbolizes not only the physical and social constraints but also the psychological and emotional struggles that bind individuals, preventing them from achieving true freedom and fulfillment. Through Philip's journey, Maugham examines the complexities of human existence, the nature of suffering, and the pursuit of liberation from burdens that inhibit personal growth.

Of Human Bondage

'Of Human Bondage' follows the tumultuous life of Philip Carey, an orphaned boy with a clubfoot, who struggles against societal expectations and his own passions. As he navigates love, art, and the quest for meaning, Philip finds himself entangled in obsessive relationships, particularly with the enigmatic Mildred. Maugham intricately explores themes of desire, individuality, and the shackles of emotional dependency. His journey is marked by poignant self-discovery and the harsh realities of human existence. Will Philip ever find true freedom, or is he destined to remain bound by his own human struggles?

By W. Somerset Maugham

Published: 1991

""The unfortunate, sensible man, who is convinced that his life is not worth living, knows that fortune will make him live. His very misery is a form of duty.""

Literature Modern Literature Literary Fiction

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What Readers Say About This Book

A masterpiece of modern literature that mirrors Maugham’s own career. Of Human Bondage is the first and most autobiographical of Maugham's novels. It is the story of Philip Carey, an orphan eager for life, love and adventure. After a few months studying in Heidelberg, and a brief spell in Paris as a would-be artist, Philip settles in London to train as a doctor. And that is where he meets Mildred, the loud but irresistible waitress with whom he plunges into a formative, tortured and masochistic affair which very nearly ruins him.

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Key Points from Of Human Bondage

In W. Somerset Maugham's 'Of Human Bondage', the plot follows the tumultuous life of Philip Carey as he navigates the complexities of love, ambition, and self-understanding. The story begins with Philip's troubled childhood which is marked by the loss of his mother and his subsequent emotional detachment from his family. This backstory sets the stage for his later struggles. Maugham skillfully illustrates Philip's romantic pursuits, particularly his intense but ultimately disastrous relationship with Mildred, a waitress with whom he becomes obsessively infatuated. This relationship exemplifies the themes of desire and despair, serving as a catalyst for Philip's emotional turmoil and existential questions. As Philip attempts to carve an identity for himself within the constraints of societal expectations and his own insecurities, he faces a series of failures in both his career as an artist and personal relationships. Notably, the cyclical nature of Philip’s experiences—with hope giving way to disillusionment—highlights the broader theme of the search for autonomy in a world fraught with limitations. The narrative structure reinforces Philip's transformation and quest for purpose, making his eventual acceptance of life's inherent struggles not just a personal victory, but a reflection of the human condition itself.

About the Author

W. Somerset Maugham

W. Somerset Maugham (1874-1965) was a British playwright, novelist, and short story writer, celebrated for his keen observations of human nature and social critique. Among his most notable works are 'Of Human Bondage', 'The Moon and Sixpence', and 'The Razor's Edge', which showcase his ability to explore complex characters in rich, evocative settings. Maugham's writing style is characterized by clarity, simplicity, and a masterful use of dialogue, often employing a sense of irony and an acute understanding of the human condition.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: W. Somerset Maugham
Published: June 1991
Publisher: Bantam Classics
ISBN: 055321392X
Language: English
Pages: 736
Genres: Modern LiteratureLiteratureLiterary Fiction

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“"The unfortunate, sensible man, who is convinced that his life is not worth living, knows that fortune will make him live. His very misery is a form of duty."”

Of Human Bondage

By W. Somerset Maugham

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Of Human Bondage

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About the Author

W. Somerset Maugham

Book Details

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Lord of the Flies

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