Themes: Father-Son Relationship
"Siddhartha" explores four key themes, all intertwined with the quest for self-discovery. The first theme, the father-son relationship, may strike a chord with many readers, as it may mirror their personal experiences. Despite Siddhartha's deep admiration and affection for his father, a pious Brahmin, he realizes that his father's insights cannot lead him to his own truth. Consequently, Siddhartha becomes a traditional rebel within his family, understanding that no one, not even his wise father, can guide him to his authentic Self. He questions the value of his father's practices, such as frequent river rituals to wash away guilt, and leaves home to pursue Aiman, the unique spirit present in every individual. For Siddhartha, this journey is rooted in personal experience rather than inherited knowledge. This father-son theme resurfaces at the novel's end when Siddhartha's own son leaves for similar reasons.
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