Siddhartha

Main Characters and Their Development

• Siddhartha: The main character of the book, a Brahmin's son who embarks on a spiritual journey in search of enlightenment. Initially, he follows traditional religious practices but soon realizes this is not his path. He becomes a Samana, then a disciple of the Buddha, but finds no satisfaction. Siddhartha goes through many life stages, including being a merchant and a father, before finding true enlightenment by the river, understanding that all beings and phenomena are interconnected.
• Govinda: Siddhartha's best friend, who also seeks enlightenment. He follows Siddhartha at the beginning of their journey but decides to stay with the Buddha when Siddhartha chooses to continue his search alone. At the end of the book, Govinda meets Siddhartha again and, through him, achieves enlightenment.
• Kamala: A beautiful courtesan who teaches Siddhartha the art of love and helps him understand the world of material pleasures. She becomes the mother of his son but dies from a snake bite. Her death and the encounter with his son become important stages in Siddhartha's spiritual development.
• Vasudeva: An old ferryman who becomes Siddhartha's mentor. He lives by the river and teaches Siddhartha to listen to its voice, which helps him achieve enlightenment. Vasudeva embodies the wisdom and tranquility that come with acceptance and understanding of life.
• Young Siddhartha: Siddhartha and Kamala's son. After his mother's death, he lives with his father but does not accept his way of life and eventually runs away. His departure becomes an important lesson for Siddhartha about attachment and letting go.