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Of Human Bondage

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1915

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Book Brief

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W. Somerset Maugham

Of Human Bondage

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1915
Book Details
Pages

684

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • Late 19th Century

Theme
Publication Year

1915

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham is a 1915 novel that follows the life of Philip Carey, who is orphaned at a young age and raised by his strict uncle and aunt in late 19th-century England. He grapples with loneliness, social class struggles, and his clubfoot disability, as he searches for purpose in various careers and relationships, ultimately finding meaning in love and family. The novel includes discussions of stillbirth, suicide, alcoholism, sex work, and discrimination based on a disability.

Melancholic

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Emotional

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.3

61,560 ratings

79%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham is widely praised for its deep character development and exploration of human nature. Reviewers commend its insight into personal freedom, though some note the protagonist's journey can feel overly bleak. The novel's autobiographical elements enrich its authenticity, though a few readers find its pace slow. A profound classic overall.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Of Human Bondage?

Readers who revel in profound character studies and complex emotional landscapes will be captivated by Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham. Similar in appeal to fans of Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment and Hardy’s Tess of the d'Urbervilles, this novel delves into the intricacies of human frailty, ambition, and desire.

4.3

61,560 ratings

79%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

684

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • Late 19th Century

Theme
Publication Year

1915

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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