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Of Human Bondage · Question

How does Of Human Bondage develop the theme of Love and Obsession?

Answer

Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham develops Love and Obsession across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.

Philip's destructive, masochistic obsession with Mildred Rogers dominates much of the narrative, illustrating how irrational desire can enslave a person and override reason and self-respect.

A mother's passionate love for her child drives her to a physically taxing act to ensure her memory endures.

Philip's attachment to Rose becomes obsessive, as he imagines himself in Rose's body and feels a 'curious tremor' in his heart, leading to possessive disappointment when Rose forgets their plan.

Cäcilie's passionate declaration of love for Herr Sung defies social norms and household authority, revealing the consuming nature of her attachment.

Evidence in the book

  • V

    A mother's passionate love for her child drives her to a physically taxing act to ensure her memory endures.

  • XVIII

    Philip's attachment to Rose becomes obsessive, as he imagines himself in Rose's body and feels a 'curious tremor' in his heart, leading to possessive disappointment when Rose forgets their plan.

  • The Scandal at Frau Erlin's

    Cäcilie's passionate declaration of love for Herr Sung defies social norms and household authority, revealing the consuming nature of her attachment.

  • XXXII

    Philip's growing fascination with Miss Wilkinson and her stories hints at his early romantic and obsessive tendencies.

  • XXXIII

    Philip's infatuation with Miss Wilkinson drives him to pursue a romantic conquest, blending curiosity and desire.

  • XXXIV

    Philip's calculated pursuit of Miss Wilkinson is driven more by ego and the thrill of the game than genuine affection, highlighting the performative nature of his 'love'.

  • XXXV

    Philip's initial infatuation quickly turns to repulsion, while Miss Wilkinson's obsessive attachment becomes a burden.

  • XXXVII

    Miss Wilkinson's obsessive, reproachful letters and Philip's guilt and desire to escape highlight the destructive side of love.

Characters

Themes