SIDDHARTHA: Literary Analysis Essay
Directions: Select one of the suggested topics OR create an original topic (approved by me) in
response to Siddhartha in order to construct a literary analysis essay. Develop your argument in
a well thought-out and organized essay, citing evidence (adding quotes with page numbers) from
the novel to support your argument. Please be sure to avoid merely summarizing the plot. Make
sure all quotes are integrated correctly, and be sure to add correct MLA parenthetical
documentation.
Suggested Topics

Siddhartha is a love story in addition to the story of a spiritual quest. How do
Siddhartha’s romantic love for Kamala and his love for his son impact his spirituality?
How does Siddhartha’s spirituality, in turn, impact Kamala and his son?

Siddhartha concerns the quest for spiritual enlightenment, and by the end of it four
characters have achieved this goal: Govinda, Gotama, Vasudeva, and Siddhartha. What
distinctions and similarities exist between the paths these characters use to reach their
final goal?

Siddhartha meets the river at various points in his journey. Discuss the meaning of the
river/river encounters in Siddhartha’s journey to find Nirvana.

With additional research, examine connections between the novel and Jungianism (Carl
Jung’s psychoanalytical theories).

Discuss how Siddhartha’s story models a hero’s journey or quest story. Do you notice a
specific symbol or pattern of events that initiate Siddhartha’s continuing character
development? In your analysis, be sure to include both the stated reason and the real
reason for the quest.
Consider Siddhartha’s relationship with Govinda. How are they similar and how are they
different? What are the narrative and thematic functions of Govinda’s reappearance
throughout the novel?

Basic Requirements:
 3-4 pages
 Proper MLA formatting, including correct in-text citations, a Works Cited page, etc.
 Proper essay structure, including: an introduction with an arguable thesis, body
paragraphs, and a conclusion
 Rich use of textual evidence to support claims (direct and indirect quotes paired with
analysis)
 Participation in class/peer workshops
 One-on-one conferencing with Ms. Peck between 5-16 & 5-19
 Online submission, to be e-mailed to Ms. Peck (peckd@charlottenet.org) no later than
11:59 pm, Friday, May 20th