Nietzsche and Emerson on History
Nietzsche and Emerson on History
Author(s): Laura LangoneSubject(s): 19th Century Philosophy, Philosophy of History
Published by: Transnational Press London
Keywords: History; self-cultivation; plastic power; character; experimentation; perspectivism; free spirit;
Summary/Abstract: This paper aims to show how Nietzsche was influenced by Emerson in developing a conception of history as a set of values to be embodied in order to gain a deeper insight into the essence of reality. It is a conception that Nietzsche first expressed in his second Untimely Meditation, On the Uses and Disadvantages of History for Life (1874) and that fully developed in the period of his so-called “free spirit philosophy” (1878-1882). Firstly, I will briefly outline the relationship between Nietzsche and Emerson. Secondly, I will illustrate Emerson’s stance on history. Thirdly, I will show how Nietzsche drew on Emerson’s thought.
Journal: The Agonist
- Issue Year: 16/2022
- Issue No: 2
- Page Range: 95-103
- Page Count: 9
- Language: English