“A great value of antiquity lies in the fact that its writings are the only ones that modern men still read with exactness.”
- October 15, 1844 – August 25, 1900
- Born in Germany
- Philosopher, poet, and classical philologist
- With works such as “Thus Spoke Zarathustra,” “Beyond Good and Evil,” and “The Genealogy of Morals,” he questioned traditional morality, religion, and truth, and had a major impact on modern philosophy.
Quote
“A great value of antiquity lies in the fact that its writings are the only ones that modern men still read with exactness.”
Explanation
In this quote, Friedrich Nietzsche reflects on the enduring influence of ancient texts, suggesting that their value lies in the clarity and precision with which they continue to be read and understood by modern readers. Nietzsche points out that, unlike contemporary works, the writings of antiquity—such as those by Plato, Aristotle, or Homer—retain a level of directness and uncomplicated wisdom that makes them timeless. Despite the passage of centuries, these works are still accessible and relevant, largely because they present their ideas in a straightforward way, without the dense complexities or shifting cultural contexts of more modern texts. For Nietzsche, the simplicity and depth of ancient philosophy offer a clear and valuable way to understand fundamental truths about human nature and existence.
Historically, Nietzsche was deeply influenced by ancient Greek philosophy and classical ideals. He believed that much of modern thought had become muddled by contemporary trends, ideologies, and moral systems that obscured deeper truths. In contrast, the writings of ancient thinkers were uncomplicated and direct, offering a clarity of purpose and vision that had been lost in the intervening centuries. Nietzsche admired the way these ancient works could transcend time, offering insights that remained relevant across the ages, despite the cultural differences and the changes in human society.
In modern contexts, this quote can be applied to how we continue to engage with classic literature and philosophy. Ancient works like the writings of the Greek philosophers, the Epic of Gilgamesh, or the Bible remain central to modern education and intellectual life, not only because of their historical significance but also because they are still read with great attention to detail and accuracy. In a world where information is constantly changing and evolving, these ancient texts provide a stable foundation of knowledge that can still offer profound insights into human nature, morality, and society. Nietzsche’s words serve as a reminder of the value of engaging with these timeless works, which retain their relevance and clarity even in our modern age.
