Plot outline by chapter

The Brahmin's son

This is the crossing of the first threshold. Siddhartha asks his father if he can go and become a Samana. Obediently Siddhartha waits for the permission on his father and then sets out on his quest.

With the Samanas

Siddhartha fast and meditates to work towards achieving Nirvana. He tries to overcome pain and hunger. Although he does not thirst physically, he thirsts for knowledge. He questions the goals of the Samanas because they are impossible to reach. He wants knowledge and Govinda and Siddhartha decide to go study the teachings of the Buddha.

Gotama

With Govinda, Siddhartha goes to the teachings of Buddha and they are accepted. Siddhartha leaves Govinda to find salvation alone. He talks to the Buddha to give his word that it is alright if he goes on his journey of obtaining knowledge and finding...