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What is Thus Spake Zarathustra?
"Thus Spake Zarathustra" is an extravagant way of saying, "and so it begins," by using a slightly nonsensical allusion to the nineteenth century work by German philosopher, Friedrich Nietzsche.
"I'm not looking forward to doing that project next week."
"Me neither man."
-Teacher: "Since it may snow next week, we're going to be doing the project this week instead."
"Thus Spake Zarathustra."
Thus Spake Zarathustra - video
Thus Spake Zarathustra - what is it?
A philosophical novel by Friedrich Nietzsche written in the 19th century. In German it is titled: Also sprach Zarathustra. In English, it is also called "Thus Spoke Zarathustra".
Or, simplified: Therefore, >> he (Zarathustra) spoke of >> thee. (subject)
It is a book widely regarded as Nietzsche's best work.
The title name Thus Spake Zarathustra, is meant to be ironic and cynical, like morbid sarcasm; and is suggestive of the apprehensive atmosphere the book displays. It explains why Zarathustra turned himself into a Prophet, during an era where God is dead (metaphor) in order to quell and stop disorder and confusion in the Middle East.
Despite Nietzsche being a good person; It is a very dangerous book, that should only be read by mature and responsible individuals. (this is why Germany and Russia have attempted to ban books written by Nietzsche.)
Basically, it tells the story of a real Avestan (Aryan) prophet named Zoroaster who lived about 2,500 years ago; and whom started a religion (see: Zoroastrianism) in order to overthrow a malignant, illegitimate and dystopian Empire; (see: Babylon) and to help uproot it, in order to create a new social order. Essentially, Zoroaster (or Zarathustra) attempts to become a Nobleman and wise prophet among the populace; or more specifically, an Übermensch.
Thus Spake Zarathustra is a very good read. (whether you are Atheist or believer) Only the most intellectual of individuals are able to truly comprehend and understand it. Assholes and cowards despise and deride it; or are just too lazy or daft. The average individual may not understand the book. Many critics of Nietzsche disdainfully write it off as nonsense and drivel. The book is basically written in a fairy-tale storybook way, kind of like a poem or poetic prose. (similar to the gospel).
(Although asshole critics overlook and bash Nietzsche, he was actually doing perfectly fine in Mental health at the time, while he wrote the book. Nietzsche has a lot of controversy surrounding him; such as his subsequently deteriorating mental health. Which is what critics (without reading or understanding) overlook.)
Those who "get the book" therefore "understand". This is why Nietzsche proclaimed and entitled the book with the famous cautionary slogan: "A BOOK FOR EVERYONE AND FOR NO ONE."
(it could be said by some scholars, that mortal Zoroaster was the original Jesus.)
Ex. In Thus Spake Zarathustra; humble Zoroaster, minding the war, chaos and disorder that surrounds him; attempts to bring back order and self-responsibility to the people; and becomes an Übermensch, respite risking his own life.