AP PREP POST 1: SIDDHARTHA

AP Literature Questions on Siddhartha

1. What is the significance of the different social classes that Siddhartha goes through? Well, I haven't read this story in a while but I think it just shows that whatever social class he is in, he will be discontent because he is hungry for information. His former life did not fill the void he had so he went out to look for that enlightening event/experience.
2. Discuss the father-son theme. In Siddhartha's culture, men usually have a very strong relationship because the father helps make the boy into a man. I can see why there is a bond and Siddhartha makes references to wanting to return home.
3. What does the symbol of the snake represent? A stump in the road. Should he cross or should he go back?
4. What is the importance of Kamala in the novel? She is a symbol that represents, in a way, the snake that spoke to Adam and Eve. She is a distraction and Siddhartha does get distracted.
5. Does Kamala symbolize the forbidden apple? Yes she does. She is a temptation and the a fruit that Siddhartha has never tasted. She "tastes" so delicious that he stays with her for a while.
6. Why doesn’t Siddhartha follow Guatamma?
7. What does Siddhartha feel after he has reached enlightenment? Alone.

http://www.greatbooks.org/resources/guides/novels/siddhartha/

http://www.cliffsnotes.com/study_guide/literature/siddhartha/study-help/essay-questions.html