# How does Of Human Bondage develop the theme of The Search for Meaning?

> Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham

## Answer

Of Human Bondage by W. Somerset Maugham develops The Search for Meaning across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.

Philip's lifelong quest to understand the purpose of life is central, culminating in the realization that life has no inherent meaning, a truth symbolized by Cronshaw's Persian carpet.

Philip's journey to Heidelberg marks a new phase in his search for purpose and identity, away from the constraints of his uncle's home.

Philip's introduction to philosophy and his restless desire to find purpose and direction in life.

Philip searches for a personal philosophy and meaning in life through reading philosophy and science, but remains unsatisfied, recalling Cronshaw's riddle of the Persian carpet.

## Evidence

- [xxii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxii.md): Philip's journey to Heidelberg marks a new phase in his search for purpose and identity, away from the constraints of his uncle's home.
- [xxxi](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xxxi.md): Philip's introduction to philosophy and his restless desire to find purpose and direction in life.
- [liii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/liii.md): Philip searches for a personal philosophy and meaning in life through reading philosophy and science, but remains unsatisfied, recalling Cronshaw's riddle of the Persian carpet.
- [lxv](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxv.md): Philip ponders the meaning of life, symbolized by Cronshaw's Persian rug, which he must interpret for himself.
- [lxxxii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxii.md): Philip's continued quest for life's meaning is evoked through the Persian carpet metaphor and Cronshaw's refusal to provide an answer.
- [lxxxv](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxv.md): Philip questions his rule of life after Cronshaw's death, seeking a purpose beyond instinct.
- [lxxxviii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/lxxxviii.md): Philip is actively seeking a meaning in life, and through El Greco's art and Spanish mysticism, he feels a vague but powerful offer of understanding.
- [xciv](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/of_human_bondage_se/chapters/xciv.md): Philip contemplates his future plans, seeking meaning through travel, art, and medical practice.

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