Reading the New Nietzsche The Birth of Tragedy, The Gay Science, Thus Spoke Zarathustra, and On the Genealogy of Morals

Reading the New Nietzsche is devoted to a comprehensive analysis of the four most important ad widely read of Nietzsche's works. After a largely biographical introduction, a chapter is devoted to each work. Read in succession they give an overall philosophical account of Nietzsche's thought. Allison's approach is to be as generous as possible toward the texts--to deal with them in Nietzsche's own terms. He stresses how Nietzsche privileges the autonomy of his audience by encouraging the development of the reader's own critical abilities. By his remarkable rhetorical and stylistic skills, he writes to the heart as well as to the mind. Other topics discussed include the mistaken prejudice of Nietzsche's identification with German nationalism; his seemingly extreme statements on ethics, politics, religion, a dn gender; and his critique of philosophical foundationalism. Throughout Allison lends perspective on the usually excessive preoccupation with Nietzsche's personal life, making reference to it only when it is particularly germane, as is the case with Zarathustra. David Allison's long-awaited book conveys throughout the broad range of concerns, the provocative and compassionate style of writing, and the historical sensitivity that underlie Nietzsche's wide appeal and influence. Visit our website for sample chapters!

David B. Allison is professor of philosophy at the State University of New York at Stony Brook