Published: 2015-12-31

Nietzschean Traces in Römerbrief (1922) by Karl Barth

Adam R. Prokop
Studia Oecumenica
Section: Articles
DOI https://doi.org/10.25167/so.3310

Abstract

The article examines the influence of Friedrich Nietzsche’s thought on the second edition of Karl Barth’s commentary on the Epistle to the Romans from 1922. The paper concentrates on direct quotations and references by name to the philosopher in the work discussed. All quotes are presented, analysed and compared with the source text. Subsequently, the similarities and differences in terms of the contents between the interpretation of the theologian and the philosophy adopted by him are outlined. The results can be divided into three thematic groups. The first relates to the criticism of the historical thought and ahistorical concept in which Barth’s understanding of faith is immersed. The second revolves around the human being: its condition and position according to K. Barth exhibit, despite completely different teleology, astonishing similarities to Nietzschean anthropology. The third group concerns severe criticism of religion, which in Römerbrief is not only appreciated, but also almost completely assumed. Finally, further possible steps are outlined for the examination of the effects caused by the adoption of F. Nietzsche’s philosophy on K. Barth’s work.

Keywords:

K. Barth, F. Nietzsche, Epistle to the Romans, criticism of religion

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Citation rules

Prokop, A. R. (2015). Nietzschean Traces in Römerbrief (1922) by Karl Barth. Studia Oecumenica, 15, 203–217. https://doi.org/10.25167/so.3310

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