69 pages • 2 hours read
Of Human Bondage
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Book Brief
684
Novel • Fiction
England • Late 19th Century
1915
Signet
Adult
18+ years
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
61,560 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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 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.
61,560 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mildred
Mildred
A pivotal secondary character who is Philip's love interest; she manipulates his affection and struggles with economic instability.
Thorpe Athelny
Thorpe Athelny
A warm and intellectual man who becomes a father figure to Philip and eventually his father-in-law, offering guidance and support throughout Philip's journey.
Cronshaw
Cronshaw
A talented but impoverished poet with a bohemian lifestyle who influences Philip’s philosophical outlook on life.
Griffiths
Griffiths
A charming and popular fellow medical student who forms a close friendship with Philip but ultimately betrays him by pursuing a relationship with Mildred.
684
Novel • Fiction
England • Late 19th Century
1915
Signet
Adult
18+ years
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