Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse is a philosophical novel that follows the spiritual journey of a young man named Siddhartha during the time of the Buddha. The narrative explores themes of self-discovery, inner peace, and the quest for enlightenment, illustrating the protagonist's path through asceticism, sensual indulgence, and ultimately, a deeper understanding of life. Hesse's lyrical prose and the novel's incorporation of Eastern philosophies make it a timeless exploration of the human soul's search for meaning.