‘Influence Of Natural Elements On The Protagonist Of Siddhartha and The Stranger’
The elements of Nature are very important for mankind’s existence. It plays a very important role in each ones life. The forces of these elements are portrayed in those dwelling near it. As it is such an essential part of mankind it is used extensively in novels like The Stranger and Siddhartha. Nature can be used in literature to indicate all sorts of things but in particular it symbolizes the character of a person, as a person is most influenced by it. Since elements of Nature are present all around, one is always influenced by it. However, the time spent with the element of nature depends on the influence upon the person. Both the authors Herman Hesse and Albert Camus have used the river and sun respectively to put across significant events in their respective novels. One can gain insight to what the novels are trying to convey by analyzing the elements of nature (river and the sun) in their novels. This essay will explore these symbols and their influence on Siddhartha and Mersault.
From the beginning, the river plays a very significant role in Siddhartha’s life. The narrator in the first few pages of the novel introduces to the readers the place where Siddhartha grew up. Thus, showing how nature has always been a guardian in Siddhartha’s life and is responsible for his peaceful and serene nature.
"In the shade of the house, in the sunshine of the riverbank near the boats, in the shade of the Sal-wood forest, in the shade of the fig tree is where Siddhartha grew up".[1]
The river is also very significant to Siddhartha as he belongs to the Brahmin caste. The river signifies a place where one can purify himself and wash away all his sins. It is a very essential part of a Brahmins daily ritual. Thus, a very significant part of every Brahmins life.
"The sun browned his slender shoulders on the river bank, while bathing at the holy ablutions, at the holy...