Somerset Maugham’s view of human nature reflects his sharp observational skills, pragmatic worldview, and a certain degree of cynicism tempered by empathy. Through his novels, short stories, and essays, Maugham explored the complexities, contradictions, and vulnerabilities of human behavior. Here are the key aspects of his perspective:
1. Human Nature as Fundamentally Flawed
• Maugham believed that human beings are inherently flawed, driven by a mix of self-interest, emotions, and irrational impulses.
• Egoism and Self-Interest:
• He often depicted characters acting out of self-interest, whether for love, ambition, or survival.
• He viewed selfishness not as a moral failing but as a natural part of human behavior.
• Example: In The Moon and Sixpence, Charles Strickland abandons his family to pursue art, embodying a ruthless focus on personal fulfillment.
2. Duality of Human Nature
• Maugham saw human beings as a mix of noble aspirations and base desires:
• People aspire to higher ideals, like love, art, or moral goodness.
• Yet, they are constantly undermined by greed, lust, and fear.
• Example: In Of Human Bondage, Philip Carey struggles with his lofty ambitions but is frequently ensnared by his irrational obsession with Mildred, illustrating the tension between reason and emotion.
3. The Power of Emotion over Reason
• Maugham was skeptical of the idea that humans are primarily rational beings.
• He believed that emotions, passions, and instincts often overpower logic and reason, leading to decisions that are irrational or self-destructive.
• Example: His short story “Rain” depicts how a missionary’s rigid moral beliefs collapse under the pressure of repressed desires.
4. The Role of Hypocrisy
• Maugham was deeply interested in human hypocrisy:
• He believed people often present themselves as virtuous or moral, while hiding selfish or immoral motives.
• This is not necessarily malicious but reflects the human tendency to maintain appearances.
• Example: In The Painted Veil, Kitty and Walter’s marriage is built on illusions, with each harboring their own failings and hypocrisies.
5. Survival Instinct and Pragmatism
• Maugham often emphasized the pragmatic and survival-oriented side of human nature:
• People do what they must to survive, even if it means compromising their principles or betraying others.
• He admired those who could adapt to life’s challenges with resilience and pragmatism, even if it meant bending moral rules.
• Example: In The Razor’s Edge, characters like Elliott Templeton thrive by playing social games, while others falter due to their inability to adapt.
6. The Search for Meaning
• Despite his pragmatic and sometimes cynical view of human nature, Maugham acknowledged the universal human quest for meaning and fulfillment.
• He portrayed characters grappling with existential questions, seeking happiness or purpose in a chaotic and indifferent world.
• Example: In The Razor’s Edge, Larry Darrell searches for spiritual enlightenment, contrasting with the more materialistic pursuits of other characters.
7. Acceptance of Human Imperfection
• Maugham’s ultimate stance on human nature is one of acceptance:
• He did not judge people harshly for their flaws but viewed them with a mix of irony and compassion.
• He understood that people are shaped by their circumstances, weaknesses, and contradictions.
• Quote: “Man is not made for good as it is conceived by the moralists. He is made for happiness.”
8. Universal Themes in His Works
• Maugham’s exploration of human nature reveals common threads:
• Love and Desire: Often irrational and fraught with complications.
• Ambition and Failure: The pursuit of success and the inevitable shortcomings.
• Illusions and Reality: The tension between how people perceive themselves and how they truly are.
Conclusion
For Somerset Maugham, human nature is a complex and often contradictory mix of self-interest, emotion, hypocrisy, and a yearning for meaning. While his view could be seen as cynical, it is tempered by empathy and an acceptance of human imperfection. Through his stories, Maugham portrays humanity not as it should be but as it is—flawed, resilient, and endlessly fascinating.
