Notes on Nietzsche and Redemption Concepts

Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche

• Born on October 14, 1844, in Germany; died August 25, 1900.
• Nietzsche was a philosopher and scholar known for his critical approach toward religion, morality, and contemporary culture.

Rejection of Christian Redemption

• Nietzsche dismissed the Christian interpretation of redemption, which is tied to the idea of Christ saving humanity from sin.
• He argued that this view implies a life destined for unhappiness.
• Suffering and pain are intrinsic aspects of human existence, contributing to the essence of what it means to be human.
• The desire for redemption is also natural, but it is primarily a personal introspection rather than a theological necessity.
• Example: Consider Michael Vick; does he care about being perceived as redeemed by a random high school student? Likely, he cares more about those who are close to him, shaping our understanding of redemption through personal connections.

Redemption Through Philosophy

• Nietzsche proposed that true redemption involves accepting the past: "To redeem the past and to transform every ‘It was’ into an ‘I willed it thus!’"
• This notion means taking ownership of one’s choices, suggesting that understanding our actions allows us to alter our perceptions of redemption.

The Eternal Recurrence

• In his philosophical discussion, Nietzsche introduces the concept of eternal recurrence, where a demon proposes that one must live their life repeatedly with all its pains and joys.
  • 
    Example Quote: "This life as you now live it and have lived it… every pain and every joy… will have to return to you…"
• This thought experiment challenges individuals to consider if they desire to relive their life as it is. It raises existential questions about intention and living meaningfully.

Process of Redemption in Literature

• Based on readings from selected literature, a process for redemption can be outlined:
  • Admitting wrongdoing/Recognizing: Acknowledgment of guilt or error.
  • Take Responsibility: Accept consequences which may not always be clear-cut.
  • Determining to Change: Resolve to avoid repeating past mistakes.
  • Apologizing: Express regret to those harmed if possible.
  • Movement Toward Improvement: Seek a general trajectory towards good.
• Important Questions:
  • Must these steps be followed in order?
  • Why has the character Amir not achieved redemption yet despite attempts?
  • How does redemption function in the presence of ongoing animosity from others?

Amir's Childhood and Attempts at Redemption

• Amir's failure to achieve redemption during childhood can be scrutinized through key moments:
  • Quotes:
  • "I watched Hassan get raped." (p75)
  • "I almost told [Rahim] everything" (p87)
  • "Hit me back!" (p81)
  • "I wish he’d give me the punishment I craved…" (p81)
  • Actions:
  • Placing a watch and money under Hassan’s mattress (p93).
  • Acquiring new servants (p78).
• Hypothesis on Amir's Failure:
  • He never truly apologizes, believing he can dictate his own punishment.
  • Did not commit fully to taking responsibility or admitting wrongdoing.

Amir's Adult Journey Toward Redemption

• In adulthood, Amir displays growth reflective of a redemption process:
  • Quotes/Events:
  • Experiences guilt over losses (Baba, Hassan).
  • Decision to rescue Sohrab (p198-199).
  • Places money under Wahid’s mattress (p212) for altruistic reasons.
  • Resolves to stay with Sohrab (p223).
  • Resists the idea of forgetting his childhood; states, "I don’t want to forget" (p230).
• Analysis of Redemption Steps:
  • Consider where Amir stands in terms of the redemption process.
  • Has he recognized the full extent of his past actions?
  • Has he accepted responsibility and committed to genuine improvement?
  • Steps to Evaluate:
  1. Fully recognize what has been done.
  2. Fully accept responsibility.
  3. Commit to not repeating the mistakes.
  4. Apologize to those harmed.
  5. Resolve to improve in conduct for the greater good.