Thus Spoke Zarathustra

Synopsis

'The profoundest book there is, born from the innermost richness of truth, an inexhaustible well into which no bucket descends without coming up with gold and goodness.' Thus Spoke Zarathustra (1885) was Nietzsche's own favourite among all his books and has proved to be his most popular, having sold millions of copies in many different languages. In it he addresses the problem of how to live a fulfilling life in a world without meaning, in the aftermath of 'the death of God'. Nietzsche's solution lies in the idea of eternal recurrence which he calls 'the highest formula of affirmation that can ever be attained'. A successful engagement with this profoundly Dionysian idea enables us to choose clearly among the myriad possibilities that existence offers, and thereby to affirm every moment of our lives with others on this 'sacred' earth. This translation of Zarathustra (the first new English version for over forty years) conveys the musicality of the original German, and for the first time annotates the abundance of allusions to the Bible and other classic texts with which Nietzsche's masterpiece is in conversation. ABOUT THE SERIES: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the widest range of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, helpful notes to clarify the text, up-to-date bibliographies for further study, and much more.

Summary

Prologue: Zarathustra's Descent and Ascent

Zarathustra, a lonely prophet, descends from the mountains where he has spent 10 years in solitude. He seeks to share his wisdom with humanity but is met with indifference and mockery.

Example: "And he saw the great city built upon pillars, and it glittered like ice in the cold."

I. Zarathustra's Redentions

Zarathustra encounters various individuals and groups, challenging their conventional beliefs and values. He preaches the "will to power," the idea that everyone has a desire to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.

Example: "The man of revenge is a boomerang thrown at the future."

II. Zarathustra's Children

Zarathustra gathers a group of followers, the "children of the free spirit," who embrace his teachings of self-reliance and individuality. Together, they navigate the challenges of life.

Example: "The man who masters himself becomes the greatest tyrant of all."

III. Zarathustra's Wisdom

Zarathustra continues his teachings, exploring themes of morality, ethics, and the meaning of life. He introduces the concept of the "superman," an ideal human being who transcends conventional limitations.

Example: "The coward says, 'I will be good because I fear punishment.'"

IV. Zarathustra's Revelations

Zarathustra experiences a series of transformative visions, including the "Overman" and the "Eternal Recurrence." The Overman represents the potential for human evolution, while the Eternal Recurrence suggests that life is an infinite cycle of repetition.

Example: "Every day, we live an eternal return; the same sun, the same sea, the same mountains, the same eagles, the same flies – and ourselves."

Epilogue: Zarathustra's Shadow

Zarathustra's teachings face resistance from a shadowy figure representing the forces of tradition and conformity. He ultimately disappears into the wilderness, leaving his followers to carry on his legacy.

Example: "And the shadow followed him everywhere, like a pack of hyenas following a wounded lion."