Siddhartha

Hermann Hesse

Jul 2009 · Sold by Modern Library

About this ebook

The classic novel of a quest for knowledge that has delighted, inspired, and influenced generations of readers, writers, and thinkers.

Nominated as one of America’s best-loved novels by PBS’s The Great American Read

Though set in a place and time far removed from the Germany of 1922, the year of the book’s debut, the novel is infused with the sensibilities of Hermann Hesse’s time, synthesizing disparate philosophies–Eastern religions, Jungian archetypes, Western individualism–into a unique vision of life as expressed through one man’s search for meaning.

It is the story of the quest of Siddhartha, a wealthy Indian Brahmin who casts off a life of privilege and comfort to seek spiritual fulfillment and wisdom. On his journey, Siddhartha encounters wandering ascetics, Buddhist monks, and successful merchants, as well as a courtesan named Kamala and a simple ferryman who has attained enlightenment. Traveling among these people and experiencing life’s vital passages–love, work, friendship, and fatherhood–Siddhartha discovers that true knowledge is guided from within.

Susan Bernofsky’s magnificent translation brings out Hesse’s inspired lyricism and his elegant, melodious cadences, illuminating the novel’s universal themes and timeless wisdom about the human condition.

This original Modern Library edition includes a lively new Introduction by Tom Robbins and a glossary of Indian terms.

Ratings and reviews

One of my all time favorites. Much better now than in high school or junior high whenever I first read it. My interest in Buddhism bumps this to a 5 star. Subtract one (or two) star(s) if you have little interest in spiritual reading. Still a good read with an interesting story. It's a classic. (Disclaimer: I did not necessarily read this edition)

U need to enjoy everything to d extreme, then u feel bored and will leave it. It's very much about my real nature and loved reading it. Hermann Hesse's literature is just awesome.

My main problem is that Siddhartha is not made out to be a likeable character or have a llikeable motive. Otherwise, its a great book.

About the author

Herman Hesse was the author of Siddhartha, Steppenwolf, and The Glass Bead Game. He received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1946.