Of Human Bondage

Of Human Bondage

W. Somerset Maugham, 1915

“Of Human Bondage” by W. Somerset Maugham is a poignant bildungsroman following the life of Philip Carey, an orphan with a clubfoot, as he navigates the challenges of love, self-discovery, and societal expectations in late 19th to early 20th century England and Europe. The novel explores the complexities of human relationships, the pursuit of art and beauty, and the evolution of Philip from a vulnerable young man to a resilient individual. With its realistic portrayal of emotions and timeless themes, “Of Human Bondage” stands as a classic that continues to captivate readers with its profound insights into the human experience.

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Book Info

Title: Of Human Bondage

Author: W. Somerset Maugham

Genre: Bildungsroman (coming-of-age novel)

Published: 1915

Setting: Late 19th to early 20th century England and Europe

Plot Summary: Follows the life of Philip Carey, an orphan with a clubfoot, as he navigates through love, art, and the challenges of self-discovery.

Themes:

  • Human Relationships: Explores the complexities of relationships, from friendships to romantic entanglements.
  • Art and Beauty: Reflects on the role of art in one’s life and the pursuit of beauty.
  • Identity and Self-Discovery: Philip’s journey of understanding and accepting himself.
  • Social Expectations: Addresses societal norms and expectations that shape individuals.

Character Development: Philip evolves from a naive and insecure young man to a more self-aware and independent individual.

  • Influence: Considered a classic in English literature, praised for its realistic portrayal of human emotions and the depth of character analysis.
  • Legacy: Of Human Bondage continues to be studied in literature courses and appreciated for its timeless exploration of the human condition.

Trivia

  • Autobiographical Elements: W. Somerset Maugham drew heavily from his own life in crafting “Of Human Bondage,” with the protagonist Philip Carey sharing similarities with Maugham himself, including a clubfoot and a pursuit of a career in the arts.
  • Initial Rejection: When Maugham first submitted the manuscript to publishers, it was rejected numerous times. Despite the initial setbacks, the novel went on to become one of his most acclaimed works.
  • Title Inspiration: The title is a reference to a quote from Spinoza’s “Ethics” that suggests humans are bound by their desires and emotions, a theme central to the novel’s exploration of human relationships and self-discovery.
  • Literary Impact: “Of Human Bondage” has influenced several notable authors, including George Orwell, who praised the book for its honest depiction of human experiences and emotions.
  • Adaptations: The novel has been adapted into film and television several times, with the most notable being the 1934 film starring Bette Davis and Leslie Howard, and a later TV adaptation in 1964.
  • Cultural References: The book is referenced in popular culture, including being mentioned in the movie “Moonlight” (2016), highlighting its enduring impact on literature and art.
  • Critical Reception: While contemporary reviews were mixed, over time, “Of Human Bondage” has gained widespread critical acclaim and is now considered a classic of English literature.

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