Hermann Hesse 
Siddhartha 

THE CLASSIC NOVEL OF ONE MAN’S SEARCH FOR MEANING HAS DELIGHTED, INSPIRED, AND INFLUENCED GENERATIONS



This classic allegorical novel of self-discovery by Hermann Hesse has touched the lives of millions since its original publication in 1922, after Hesse had spent time in India. Integrating Eastern and Western spiritual traditions with psychoanalysis and philosophy, this simple tale, written with a deep and moving empathy for humanity, provides the reader with insight into the philosophy and thoughts that shape Siddhartha’s path to enlightenment.



The story revolves around Siddhartha, a wealthy young man who, during the time of the Buddha, casts off a life of privilege and comfort to take a spiritual journey on a quest for fulfillment and wisdom. His travels lead him through a range of human experiences from hunger and want, to passion, pleasure, pain, greed, yearning, boredom, love, despair and hope.



The novel is infused with the sensibilities of Hesse’s time, synthesizing differing philosophies. On his journey, Siddhartha encounters Buddhist monks, successful merchants, as well as a courtesan named Kamala and a simple ferryman who has attained enlightenment. His quest takes him from the extremes of indulgence to the rigors of self-denial.



With parallels to the enlightenment of the Buddha, Siddhartha learns that wisdom cannot be taught — it must come from one’s own experience and inner struggle as true knowledge is guided from within. Siddhartha presents an original view of man and culture, and the difficult process of self-discovery that leads to compatibility, harmony, and peace. A must read for anyone seeking self-knowledge in today’s materialistic world.

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Hermann Karl Hesse was a German-Swiss poet, novelist, and painter. His best-known works include Demian, Steppenwolf, Siddhartha, and The Glass Bead Game, each of which explores an individual’s search for authenticity, self-knowledge and spirituality. In 1946, he received the Nobel Prize in Literature.