Description
“Of Human Bondage” is a novel written by British author W. Somerset Maugham, first published in 1915. It is considered one of Maugham’s most famous and enduring works and is often regarded as a classic of English literature. The novel is semi-autobiographical in nature, drawing on Maugham’s own experiences and observations.
The story follows the life of Philip Carey, the protagonist, from his childhood to adulthood. Philip is born with a clubfoot, which makes him feel like an outsider and contributes to his sense of insecurity and self-doubt. Orphaned at a young age, he is sent to live with his strict and unloving aunt and uncle.
As Philip grows older, he becomes a medical student in London but soon realizes that his true passion lies in art. He moves to Paris to pursue his artistic ambitions, and there he meets a variety of characters, including Mildred Rogers, a waitress who becomes an obsession for Philip. The novel explores themes of love, obsession, ambition, and the search for identity as Philip grapples with his emotional and romantic entanglements.
“Of Human Bondage” is known for its psychological depth and its portrayal of the human condition. It is often considered a bildungsroman, a coming-of-age novel, as it chronicles Philip Carey’s personal and emotional growth throughout his life. The title itself reflects the idea that people can be bound by their own desires, weaknesses, and circumstances.
The novel has been adapted into several films and television series over the years, and it continues to be studied and appreciated for its exploration of human emotions and relationships. It remains one of W. Somerset Maugham’s most enduring and influential works in the world of literature.
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