Societal Norms In Herman Hesse's Siddhartha

Discouraged from the pressures of "societal norms" regarding where I should be in my life at my age, the required reading list for our novel class this semester has influenced my personal journey in life. Through the lives of several characters I have been encouraged in my walk towards academic achievement along with participation in more social justice work within my community. I mentioned in an earlier discussion post that stories can transcend us into the world the writer has created. Sometimes, the world the writer has created is inspiring and has the ability to impact how be evolve as an individual. Herman Hesse's Siddhartha strove for spiritual enlightenment. He left his home at a young age to become a part of wandering ascetics,
Her perseverance was motivational. She grew up at Gateshead Hall with her aunt, Mrs. Reed, along with her 3 children. Jane was tortured by her cousin John, experiences resentment from her aunt and made fun of by the servants for her looks. She becomes depressed and apathetic towards her own life stating she wanted to escape by running away or starving herself. Once Mrs. Reed decided Jane was no longer manageable, she was sent to a boarding school. Lowood School, at first, appears to be no better for this new student. She was accused of being a liar and humiliated in front of her peers for the accusation. Kindness was extended by Miss Temple, who eventually cleared Jane's name. The school Jane attended was strict, but she had decided from the beginning she would do her best and excel in everything she could. After graduating, Jane became a teacher at Lowood School. Although, Jane reflected on the desires of her heart for the future and became Governess after putting an ad in the local paper. Jane made many other independent decisions for herself such as leaving Mr. Rochester with nothing, developing friendships with the individuals who found her and returning to Mr. Rochester after many a long period of