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Water Symbolism in Siddhartha

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Water Symbolism in Siddhartha
Water is often seen as a way to replenish oneself and start anew. It is the main source of all life on earth. Water is also used in baptism to cleanse sin and giving a fresh start to life. In the novel Siddhartha, Herman Hesse displays water as a symbol of new life, as an escape from Siddhartha’s worries, and as a way for Siddhartha to find himself.
When Siddhartha crosses the river for the first time, he crosses into a village where he meets one of his teachers, Kamala. This crossing of the river symbolizes Siddhartha’s crossing from the ascetic life to one of prosperity and success. When Siddhartha goes into the village and meets Kamala, Kamala changes him from being a shramana to becoming a
When he crosses the river a second time it “[mirrors] a fearful emptiness in his soul” (Hesse pg. 78) He saw the water as a way to wash away his troubles. This is the time where Siddhartha tries to commit suicide.
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