SIDDHARTHA Chapters 1, 2, and 3

Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse

Chapter 1

 The Brahmin's Son

Vocabulary:   Brahmin 

                     Atman

                     insatiable

                     ablutions

                     Upanishads 

                     Rig Veda 
>Why does Siddhartha no longer want to be a Brahmin?
1. Why is Siddhartha dissatisfied?

2. Why does Siddhartha want to join the Samanas?

3. How does he obtain his fathers permission to do so?

4. Why does Govinda want to go with Siddhartha?

Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse                                  May 9th

Chapter 2  (pages 13-24)  

 With the Samanas   

>What are the characteristics of a Samana’s behavior and outlook on life?

1.   How does Siddhartha’s new life as a Samana differ   from his existence as a Brahmin in Chapter One?

2.   What does Siddhartha learn from the Samanas?

3.   What does Siddhartha hope to achieve by being among the Samanas? 

4.   Why do the Samanas deny themselves?

5.   Why is Siddhartha afraid he and Govinda may be going in circles?

6.   Where does Govinda, his friend, want Siddhartha to go with him? Why?

Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse                                  May 10th

Chapter 3 (pages 25-36) 

 Gotama

> Why does Siddhartha not accept the teachings of Gotama Buddha?

1. How did Siddhartha recognize and find Gotama Buddha? 
2. How is Govinda affected by hearing Gotama’s teachings?

3. Why do Gotama and his followers wear yellow garments?

4. Why does Siddhartha seek out Gotama to speak with him?

5. What does Siddhartha learn from his conversation with Gotama?