Comparative Analysis of Siddhartha and Christopher Mccandless from The Film into The Wild

Introduction

Siddhartha and Christopher McCandless, also known as Alexander Supertramp, are two characters that share numerous similarities. Throughout the film adaptation of Siddhartha and the movie Into the Wild, both characters embark on personal quests to find themselves. Siddhartha seeks self-discovery through a journey of religion and new beliefs, whereas Alexander Supertramp searches for his identity through nature and the wilderness. These characters can be compared in many ways, as they both rely on their will to endure and adapt their teachings throughout life. Over their journeys, I have observed how they have transformed and the various challenges they have faced.

Background and Journey

Siddhartha is the central character in Hermann Hesse's novel, and he takes pride in learning and evolving through interactions with gods and wise individuals. He begins his journey at an early stage, much like Alexander, leaving his father and Brahman lifestyle to learn from the Samanas. Siddhartha and his close friend Govinda learn and grow from the Samanas, and after years, they decide they have learned enough and choose to move on. They then visit the Buddha, known as Gotama, similar to how Alexander encounters different people along his journey, exploring new ideas. When Siddhartha arrives at the Buddha, he listens attentively and asks numerous questions. The two discuss many things, and Govinda decides to join the Buddha, whereas Siddhartha concludes that this path is not meant for him, and they part ways. Siddhartha embarks on his journey alone, much like Alexander parts ways with Jan. Siddhartha also has an encounter with the Ferryman, who provides him with new insights, much like how Alexander meets the wise man at the junkyard. Both characters meet people along their journey who assist them in overcoming their struggles and facing their fears.

Comparison of Goals and Challenges

Alexander Supertramp's journey is almost equivalent to Siddhartha's, although their end goals differ. Alexander sets out to find himself through nature, seeking to escape town, leave his identity behind, and run away. Along his journey to Alaska, he is aided by many wise and experienced people who offer him survival tips, just as Siddhartha receives wisdom and guidance from wise individuals to find himself through religion. Alexander is driven to abandon everything because he is weary of his mundane life, much like Siddhartha was tired of being a Brahman. Throughout his journey, Alexander meets many people along the way, such as an old man who almost adopts him as a son, teaches him, helps him, and wishes him luck on his journey, much like the Samanas did for Siddhartha. Throughout both of their journeys, they encounter women with whom they quickly develop affection. In the movie Into the Wild, Alexander develops feelings for Jan, while Siddhartha becomes enamored with Kamala. Ultimately, both leave these women to improve themselves and continue their journey.

Shared Characteristics

Both characters also share numerous similar qualities. They are both highly receptive, as seen when Alexander Supertramp stays with different families, learns from them, and wants to hear everything they have to offer. Siddhartha is also respectful, as during his conversation with the Buddha, he asks the Buddha numerous questions in a deferential manner and wants to know what information the Buddha will impart. They are also both determined. Siddhartha is determined to find himself, even if it means fasting, waiting, and contemplating. Alexander is similarly determined as he continues to fight, even when facing death, trying to find every ounce of will left in his body to survive. Another thing that these two have in common is that they both sought to start a new lifestyle. They were both tired of their everyday lives and wanted to discover their identities through a different way of living.

Challenges and Conclusion

Their journeys are not all glamorous and upbeat; they face numerous challenges along the way. One challenge that Siddhartha faces is when he goes to Kamala, but she rejects him, telling him that he must acquire money, fine clothes, and nice shoes to date her. He undergoes many endeavors to achieve this, even working for Kamaswami to earn money. Siddhartha also battles a challenge in his life when he acquires this money and loses sight of his primary goal and reality. Alexander's path is not perfect either; he did not realize how difficult it would be to survive alone in nature. He ate poisonous berries that upset his stomach and eventually led to his painful demise. In conclusion, these two characters seek answers through wisdom and learning. They set out in different directions, but ultimately, their journeys became the same. They are two courageous men who sought what they loved, whether it was being out in the wild or trying to find the religion or lifestyle that suited them best.

References

1. Hesse, H. (1951). Siddhartha. New Directions Publishing.
2. Into the Wild. (2007). [Film]. Directed by S. Penn. Paramount Vantage.
3. Krakaur, J. (1996). Into the Wild. Villard.