Of Human Bondage Literary Elements

A novel

The actions take place in the beginning of the XX century; the place of action is extended across different cities and countries – England, Germany, France, Italy.

It is third-person narration, but at some instances such a deep analysis of the main character is given as if told by himself.

The tone and the mood differ, as the time in the book overtake almost half of the life of the protagonist. Sometimes these qualities are sad and desperate, but the story of the Philip’s lfe ends up happily, and a happy future is in front of him.

The protagonist is hilip Carey, and the antagonist Mildred Rogers

The main conflict stands in Philip’s acceptance of himself, he considers his wretchedness an obstacle for happiness, and the aggravation of the conflict is expressed in deliberate self-abasement.

The climax comes when Philip has finally understood that his obsession with Mildred had made him blind, and he finally is freed from her power over him.

Philip’s desperate obsession with Mildred does not foreshadow anything good for him, as such “blind love” may bring only disappointment.

The place of religion in Philip’s life is somehow understated, as when he grew up he refused his faith, but he did it only consciously while his subconsciousness had always been with God.

The novel alludes to different pieces of both fiction and non-fiction literature, also allusions to painters, especially of expressionism are present as well.

The imagery of nature is mostly used in the novel, images of mountains, forests help the protagonist rest his mind and take a piece of pleasure from things around him.

A paradox is present in the situation when Philip was praying so much one night that he was sure his crippled state would be cured.

Philip’s fortunes and misfortunes are depicted in parallel and exchange with one another.

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