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Literary Fiction· Germany

Siddhartha

by Hermann Hesse
Aggregate Editorial Score68/100
★Nobel Prize in Literature
Published 1922140 pagesEnglish
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About This Book

Published in 1922, Siddhartha established Hermann Hesse as one of the defining voices in literary fiction. Young Siddhartha leaves his comfortable Brahmin family to seek enlightenment, passing through the paths of asceticism, sensual indulgence, and worldly success before finding his own wisdom by a river. Hesse's slim, luminous novella has guided generations of readers on spiritual quests. It remains one of the best-selling German novels of all time. Themes of enlightenment, spirituality, self-discovery run through the work. The book has received recognition from Nobel Prize in Literature 1922.

Book Details

AuthorHermann Hesse
Published1922
Country of Origin🇩🇪 Germany
LanguageEnglish
Pages140
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN9780553208849
Editorial Score68/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

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Country of Origin

🇩🇪 Germany

This book is part of Germany's rich literary tradition.

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Editorial Assessment

Hermann Hesse published Siddhartha in 1922, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of literary fiction from Germany. The book's treatment of enlightenment, spirituality, self-discovery, Buddhism accounts for much of its enduring reputation. Among its recognitions: Nobel Prize in Literature 1922. With an editorial score of 68/100 drawn from 1 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys. The appeal of Siddhartha lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of enlightenment, spirituality, self-discovery, Buddhism is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. Siddhartha reflects Hermann Hesse's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with Germany's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Nobel Prize in Literature
winner · global
192260
✍️
About the Author
Hermann Hesse
Germany
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Hermann Hesse is a celebrated author from Germany known for influential works of literary fiction.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Siddhartha about?

Young Siddhartha leaves his comfortable Brahmin family to seek enlightenment, passing through the paths of asceticism, sensual indulgence, and worldly success before finding his own wisdom by a river. Hesse's slim, luminous novella has guided generations of readers on spiritual quests. It remains one of the best-selling German novels of all time.

Who wrote Siddhartha?

Siddhartha was written by Hermann Hesse, from Germany. First published in 1922.

What awards has Siddhartha won?

Siddhartha has received the following awards and honours: Nobel Prize in Literature 1922.

Is Siddhartha worth reading?

Siddhartha is a well-regarded book with solid critical recognition, with an aggregate editorial score of 60/100 on 50 Best Books, based on mentions across 1 editorial source. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in enlightenment, spirituality, self-discovery.

Where can I buy Siddhartha?

You can buy Siddhartha on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Siddhartha?

Siddhartha is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is Siddhartha from?

Siddhartha originates from Germany's literary tradition. Explore more books from Germany on our country page.

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