# How does Of Human Bondage develop the theme of Religion and Doubt?

> Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham

## Answer

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

Philip's journey from devout childhood faith to atheism and moral relativism mirrors the broader Victorian crisis of faith, as he rejects religious dogma in favor of a more personal, skeptical worldview.

The chapter emphasizes the pervasive influence of religion on daily life, from the Vicar's authority to the social ostracism of dissenters.

The chapter details the elaborate, ritualistic Sunday routine of a clergyman, highlighting the intersection of faith, duty, and mundane concerns.

The Sunday play incident and Mr. Carey's rigid piety illustrate the oppressive religious atmosphere Philip endures.

## Evidence

- [vi](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/vi.md): The chapter emphasizes the pervasive influence of religion on daily life, from the Vicar's authority to the social ostracism of dissenters.
- [vii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/vii.md): The chapter details the elaborate, ritualistic Sunday routine of a clergyman, highlighting the intersection of faith, duty, and mundane concerns.
- [viii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/viii.md): The Sunday play incident and Mr. Carey's rigid piety illustrate the oppressive religious atmosphere Philip endures.
- [xiv](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xiv.md): Philip's fervent prayer for a miracle and subsequent disillusionment highlight the tension between religious faith and personal doubt.
- [xvii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xvii.md): Philip experiences a profound religious revival under Mr. Perkins' influence, deciding to be ordained and offering his clubfoot as a sacrifice. However, his piety had not stood the test of time, hinting at future doubt.
- [xx](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xx.md): Philip rejects the clergy, disillusioned by the hypocrisy and dreariness of religious life he has observed.
- [xxi](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxi.md): Philip abandons the idea of ordination, causing his aunt's grief and highlighting his loss of religious vocation.
- [xxvii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxvii.md): The central topic of conversation: Hayward's aesthetic faith, Weeks' Unitarian skepticism, and Philip's conventional Anglican views are contrasted.

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