Beyond Good and Evil · Chapter
Chapter 122 explained
A brief aphorism distinguishing between a polite, gracious acceptance of praise and the deeper spiritual vice of vanity.
What happens
A brief aphorism distinguishing between a polite, gracious acceptance of praise and the deeper spiritual vice of vanity.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
The passage reveals the Wanderer's ultimate psychological exhaustion with seeking truth, climaxing in his desp…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Psychology as the Fundamental Science
Analyzes a subtle psychological motive, distinguishing surface politeness from a deeper character flaw.
Characters to notice
- The Narrator
Offers the psychological distinction between graciousness and vanity.
Key passages
“To rejoice on account of praise is in many cases merely politeness of heart—and the very opposite of vanity of spirit.”
Taking pleasure in being praised is often just good manners and graciousness, not the same as being truly vain.
Draws a fine line between social virtue and personal vice.
