Siddhartha (Dover Thrift Editions: Classic Novels) - Softcover

Hermann Hesse

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0486406539 ISBN 13: 9780486406534

Publisher: Dover Publications, 1998

Synopsis

Blending Eastern mysticism and psychoanalysis, Hermann Hesse presents a strikingly original view of man and culture and the arduous process of self-discovery, reconciliation, harmony, and peace.
 
This classic novel of self-discovery has inspired generations of seekers. With parallels to the enlightenment of the historical Buddha, Siddhārtha Gautama, Hesse's Siddhartha is the story of a young Indian Brahmin's quest for the ultimate reality—nirvana. His quest takes him from the extremes of indulgent sensuality to the rigors of asceticism and self-denial. After encounters with wandering ascetics, the famous Buddha Gautama, known as the Enlightened One, and his Buddhist monks, a courtesan named Kamala, and a ferryman, he learns that wisdom cannot be taught — it must come from one's own experience and inner struggle.
 
Steeped in the tenets of psychoanalysis, Eastern philosophy, and mysticism, Siddhartha presents a strikingly original view of man and culture, and the arduous process of self-discovery that leads to reconciliation, harmony, and peace.

• Siddhartha Includes a glossary of Indian terms.
• Hermann Hesse uses Pali and Sanskrit interchangeably.
• Hesse incorporates the teachings of Hinduism in Siddhartha's life choices as a student, householder, forest hermit, and wandering ascetic.
• Nominated as one of America’s best-loved novels by PBS’s The Great American Read.
• Translated by Stanley Appelbaum.

Dover's Thrift Editions library of classic literature is a top choice for teachers, students, librarians, and recreational readers around the world, offering exceptional value in classic fiction, nonfiction, plays, and poetry. 

 

About this title

From the Publisher

This book is perfect for AP classes and is often selected for inclusion on the AP exam. The notes, reading pointers, and vocabulary in this addition will also help students at a lower reading level get the most out of these classics.

From the Inside Flap

In the novel, Siddhartha, a young man, leaves his family for a contemplative life, then, restless, discards it for one of the flesh. He conceives a son, but bored and sickened by lust and greed, moves on again. Near despair, Siddhartha comes to a river where he hears a unique sound. This sound signals the true beginning of his life -- the beginning of suffering, rejection, peace, and, finally, wisdom.

Edition details

• Publisher: Dover Publications
• Publication date: 1998
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0486406539
• ISBN 13: 9780486406534
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 112