# Zarathustra — Thus Spoke Zarathustra character guide > Zarathustra in Thus Spoke Zarathustra by Friedrich Nietzsche. **Role:** major **Also known as:** IV Zarathustra, Thereafter Zarathustra, Zarathustra the godless, O Zarathustra, The Leech **First appearance:** 0001-zarathustra-s-prologue ## Snapshot A prophet who abandons his mountain solitude to teach that humanity must be surpassed, only to find the crowd prefers comfort to transformation. ## Who they are Zarathustra descends from his cave after years of solitude, carrying teachings about the Superman and the will to power to a marketplace that laughs at him. His deepest tension lies between his love for humanity and his contempt for its smallness—he needs living companions who follow themselves, not herds seeking a shepherd. When his solitude is invaded by a parade of higher men seeking refuge, he must reckon with whether his wisdom can survive contact with those who claim to need it. ## Relationships ### [The Higher Men](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/the_higher_men) _psychological_ Zarathustra is both a teacher and a reluctant shepherd to these flawed seekers, who project their own inadequacies onto him. ### [The Superman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/the_superman) _psychological_ The Superman is Zarathustra's idealized vision and ultimate goal, a future being he preaches but never fully embodies. ### [The Soothsayer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/the_soothsayer) _rivalry_ The Soothsayer represents nihilistic prophecy and despair, directly opposing Zarathustra's message of life-affirmation. ### [The Tarantulas](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/the_tarantulas) _rivalry_ The Tarantulas, as preachers of revenge and egalitarian resentment, are venomous ideological enemies of Zarathustra's will to power. ### [The Magician](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/the_magician) _psychological_ The Magician is a manipulative performer who tries to deceive and seduce Zarathustra with false piety and emotional theatrics. ### [The Priests](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/the_priests) _rivalry_ The Priests represent decaying religious authority and otherworldly values that Zarathustra seeks to overcome. ### [The Ugliest Man](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/the_ugliest_man) _psychological_ The Ugliest Man, who killed God out of pity, represents the deepest human shame and forces Zarathustra to confront the abyss of pity. ### [The Voluntary Beggar](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/the_voluntary_beggar) _friendship_ The Voluntary Beggar, who abandoned wealth to live among cows, shares Zarathustra's critique of society but chooses a simpler path. ### [The Wanderer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/the_wanderer) _psychological_ The Wanderer is Zarathustra's own restless spirit, representing his inner solitude and perpetual journey toward self-overcoming. ### [The Ass](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/the_ass) _social_ The Ass, a silent and stubborn beast, becomes a mock object of worship for the Higher Men, highlighting their spiritual bankruptcy. ### [The Pope Out of Service](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/the_pope_out_of_service) _friendship_ The retired Pope, having lost his faith, seeks Zarathustra as a new spiritual guide, respecting his honesty about God's death. ### [The Superman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/the_superman) _psychological_ The Superman is Zarathustra's idealized vision and ultimate goal, a future being he preaches but never fully embodies. ## In the story ### [Part I: Zarathustra’s Discourses](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-i-zarathustra-s-discourses) The protagonist who descends from his mountain solitude to teach the people and his disciples. ### [Zarathustra's Prologue](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/zarathustra-s-prologue) Descends from his mountain solitude to teach the Superman and the death of God. ### [Zarathustra's Prologue](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/i) Zarathustra leaves his mountain solitude after ten years, feeling his wisdom has become too abundant and must be shared with humanity. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/ii) Descends from the mountain alone, encounters the old saint, and declares his love for mankind and intent to give gifts. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/iii) Zarathustra speaks to the crowd in the marketplace, teaching the Superman and urging them to remain true to the earth. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/iv) Zarathustra speaks to the people, declaring his love for those who are down-goers and heralds of the Superman. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/v) Zarathustra delivers his discourse on the last man, feeling misunderstood by the laughing crowd. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/vi) Remains standing as the crowd flees; kneels beside the dying rope dancer, denies devil and hell, and offers to bury him. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/vii) Sits alone with the dead rope dancer, lost in thought, and speaks to his heart about the meaninglessness of life and his mission to teach the Superman. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/viii) Carries the dead rope-dancer, is warned by the buffoon, mocked by gravediggers, receives food from an old hermit, and finally rests in the forest. ### [The New Truth](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/ix) Awakens with a new truth, resolves to seek living companions and fellow-creators. ### [Zarathustra's Prologue](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/x) Zarathustra begins his down-going, descending from his mountain solitude to share his wisdom with humanity. ### [I: The Three Metamorphoses](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/i-the-three-metamorphoses) Zarathustra delivers the discourse on the three metamorphoses to his audience in the town called The Pied Cow. ### [II: The Academic Chairs of Virtue](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/ii-the-academic-chairs-of-virtue) Visits the wise man and listens to his discourse on sleep and virtue, ultimately laughing at the reduction of life to mere drowsiness. ### [Backworldsmen](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/iii-backworldsmen) Zarathustra speaks as a recovered backworldsman, reflecting on his former beliefs and now advocating for the body and the earth. ### [IV: The Despisers of the Body](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/iv-the-despisers-of-the-body) Speaker of the chapter, addressing the despisers of the body. ### [V: Joys and Passions](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/v-joys-and-passions) Zarathustra speaks directly to his 'brother,' instructing on the transformation of passions into virtues and the danger of virtue's jealousy. ### [VI: The Pale Criminal](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/vi-the-pale-criminal) Delivers a discourse on the pale criminal, critiquing judicial morality and advocating for pity and the Superman. ### [VII: Reading and Writing](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/vii-reading-and-writing) Delivers a discourse on writing with blood, the degradation of reading, and the necessity of laughter and courage to overcome gravity. ### [VIII: The Tree on the Hill](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/viii-the-tree-on-the-hill) Zarathustra finds the youth and offers counsel, using the tree as a symbol for the struggle between rising and rooting in darkness. ### [IX: The Preachers of Death](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/ix-the-preachers-of-death) Zarathustra speaks against the preachers of death, urging a rejection of life-denying doctrines. ### [X: War and Warriors](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/x-war-and-warriors) Zarathustra speaks as a warrior-teacher, declaring his love for his brethren in war and commanding them to seek enemies and embrace the thought of the Superman. ### [The New Idol](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/xi-the-new-idol) Delivers a scathing critique of the state as a cold monster and calls for withdrawal from its idolatry. ### [XII: The Flies in the Marketplace](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/xii-the-flies-in-the-marketplace) Zarathustra speaks as the guide, urging his friend to retreat from the marketplace and its poisonous flies. ### [XIII: Chastity](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/xiii-chastity) Delivers a discourse on chastity, instinct, and the hypocrisy of lust disguised as virtue. ### [The Friend](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/xiv-the-friend) Delivers a discourse on the nature and requirements of true friendship. ### [The Thousand and One Goals](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/xv-the-thousand-and-one-goals) Zarathustra observes and recounts the diverse value systems of many peoples, emphasizing that valuation is a creative act of the Will to Power. ### [XVI: Neighbour-Love](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/xvi-neighbour-love) Delivers a discourse on the true nature of neighbor-love, advocating for self-overcoming and love of the future. ### [The Way of the Creating One](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/xvii-the-way-of-the-creating-one) Speaker and guide, addressing the lonesome creating one. ### [Old and Young Women](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/xviii-old-and-young-women) Zarathustra speaks to an old woman about the nature of women and men, and receives a sharp piece of advice. ### [XIX: The Bite of the Adder](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/xix-the-bite-of-the-adder) Bitten by an adder, he turns the event into a lesson on morality, revenge, and justice. ### [Child and Marriage](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/xx-child-and-marriage) Speaker of the chapter, addressing a young brother with a probing question about marriage and self-overcoming. ### [Voluntary Death](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/xxi-voluntary-death) Zarathustra delivers a discourse on the ideal of voluntary death, urging his friends to die at the right time for the sake of their goals and heirs. ### [The Bestowing Virtue](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/xxii-the-bestowing-virtue) Speaks to his disciples at a crossroads, teaching about the bestowing virtue and urging them to remain true to the earth. ### [The Bestowing Virtue](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/i) Leaves his disciples at a crossroads, speaks on the bestowing virtue and the origin of virtue in the body. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/ii) Speaks lovingly to his disciples, urging them to remain true to the earth and to become creators. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/iii) Speaks to his disciples, advising them to depart and deny him, and foretells his return at the great noontide. ### [XXIII: The Child with the Mirror](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxiii-the-child-with-the-mirror) Awakens from a troubling dream and resolves to leave his solitude to seek his friends and enemies. ### [In the Happy Isles](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxiv-in-the-happy-isles) Delivers a doctrine of creation, will, and the Superman, rejecting the concept of God. ### [The Pitiful](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxv-the-pitiful) Delivers a discourse on the dangers of pity, recounting the devil's words and urging his friends to rise above pity. ### [XXVI: The Priests](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxvi-the-priests) Addresses his disciples about the priests, expressing both pity and critique. ### [The Virtuous](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxvii-the-virtuous) Zarathustra speaks directly to the virtuous, challenging their conceptions of virtue and urging them to embody their own self in their actions. ### [XXVIII: The Rabble](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxviii-the-rabble) Zarathustra speaks of his loathing for the rabble, his journey to escape them, and his discovery of a pure well of delight on the loftiest height. ### [XXIX: The Tarantulas](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxix-the-tarantulas) Zarathustra speaks in parable against the tarantulas, declaring himself a dancer, not a tarantula-dancer, and urging his friends to bind him to a pillar rather than let revenge dizzy his soul. ### [XXX: The Famous Wise Ones](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxx-the-famous-wise-ones) Zarathustra speaks directly to the 'famous wise ones,' criticizing their servitude to the people and their lack of true spirit. ### [XXXI: The Night-Song](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxi-the-night-song) Zarathustra sings of his lonesomeness as a bestower of light, craving darkness and love, and feeling the misery of his own generosity. ### [XXXII: The Dance-Song](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxii-the-dance-song) Sings a dance-song praising Life and Wisdom, then becomes melancholy at evening. ### [XXXIII: The Grave-Song](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxiii-the-grave-song) The lone seafarer who mourns his lost youth and celebrates his enduring Will. ### [Self-Surpassing](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxiv-self-surpassing) Zarathustra delivers his teaching on the will to power and self-surpassing, addressing the wisest ones. ### [XXXV: The Sublime Ones](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxv-the-sublime-ones) Speaker and observer; reflects on the sublime one's flaws and envisions a path to beauty and the superhero. ### [The Land of Culture](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxvi-the-land-of-culture) Narrates his return from the future to the present, expressing horror, laughter, and longing for a home he cannot find among present-day men. ### [XXXVII: Immaculate Perception](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxvii-immaculate-perception) Delivers a parable against the 'pure discerners,' contrasting their false, moon-like contemplation with his own solar, creative love of life. ### [XXXVIII: Scholars](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxviii-scholars) Narrates his break from the scholarly world, asserting his superiority and love of freedom. ### [XXXIX: Poets](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xxxix-poets) Zarathustra speaks to a disciple, critiquing poets and reflecting on his own nature as a poet. ### [XL: Great Events](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xl-great-events) Narrates his dialogue with the fire-dog and reflects on the nature of great events, the state, and the church. ### [XLI: The Soothsayer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xli-the-soothsayer) Hears the soothsayer's prophecy, falls into deep sadness and sleep, dreams of guarding Death's fortress, and is interpreted by his disciples as the wind that overcomes death. ### [XLII: Redemption](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xlii-redemption) Speaks with the hunchback and cripples, then delivers a deep teaching on redemption, the Will, and the transformation of the past. ### [XLIII: Manly Prudence](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xliii-manly-prudence) Articulates his 'manly prudence' and double will, torn between attachment to man and striving for the Superman. ### [The Stillest Hour](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-ii-xliv-the-stillest-hour) Zarathustra is the central figure, tormented by the command of his 'stillest hour' to speak his ultimate word and return to solitude. ### [XLV: The Wanderer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xlv-the-wanderer) Zarathustra ascends the mountain ridge, reflecting on his solitary wanderings and preparing for his final, most lonesome journey. ### [The Vision and the Enigma](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xlvi-the-vision-and-the-enigma) Narrates his vision of the gateway and the shepherd, confronting the spirit of gravity and the idea of eternal recurrence. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-i) The protagonist who breaks his silence to share his vision of the lonesomest one and his battle with the spirit of gravity. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-ii) Narrates his vision of the shepherd and the serpent, and debates the dwarf about eternal recurrence. ### [XLVII: Involuntary Bliss](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xlvii-involuntary-bliss) Zarathustra sails alone, reflecting on his solitude, his love for his children, and his struggle with an abysmal thought. He experiences involuntary bliss and distrusts it. ### [Before Sunrise](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xlviii-before-sunrise) Speaks in a lyrical, intimate address to the heaven, revealing his deepest desires for purity, flight, and the affirmation of chance over purpose. ### [XLIX: The Bedwarfing Virtue](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xlix-the-bedwarfing-virtue) Returns from the island, observes the 'bedwarfing' of humanity, and delivers a scathing critique of small virtues and submission. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-i) Zarathustra returns to the continent, wanders, and observes the diminished state of humanity, sighing at the need to stoop before the small. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-ii) Zarathustra reflects on his alienation from the people, who misunderstand and fear him, and critiques their small virtues and mediocrity. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-iii) Proclaims himself as 'Zarathustra the godless' and calls for self-will and rejection of submission. ### [On the Olive-Mount](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-l-on-the-olive-mount) The speaker throughout the chapter, reflecting on winter, solitude, and his own inner depth. ### [On Passing-By](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-li-on-passing-by) Zarathustra encounters the foaming fool at the gate of the great city, rebukes him for his vengeful contempt, and passes by the city. ### [The Apostates](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-lii-the-apostates) Zarathustra reflects on the apostasy of his former followers and mocks their return to piety, while rejoicing in his imminent return home. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-i) Zarathustra observes the decline of his former followers and advises himself to let the withered leaves fall away. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-ii) Zarathustra speaks in the city, critiquing the new devotees and recounting the laughter of the old gods. ### [The Return Home](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-liii-the-return-home) Zarathustra returns to his solitude, reflecting on his past experiences of forsakenness and his relief at being away from human society. ### [The Three Evil Things](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-liv-the-three-evil-things) Narrates his dream of weighing the world and revalues the three evil things, blessing selfishness and announcing the great noontide. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-i) The dreamer and weigher of the world, who seeks to revalue the three worst things. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-ii) Proclaims the great noontide and blesses healthy selfishness, contrasting it with the false virtue of priests and the world-weary. ### [LV: The Spirit of Gravity](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-lv-the-spirit-of-gravity) Zarathustra speaks in first person, describing his bird-nature and enmity toward the spirit of gravity. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-i) The speaker who describes his own coarse and bird-like nature, hostile to the spirit of gravity. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-ii) Zarathustra delivers a discourse on self-love, the spirit of gravity, and the necessity of finding one's own way, rejecting universal moralities. ### [LVI: Old and New Tables](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-lvi-old-and-new-tables) Sits among old and new tables, waiting for his hour of descent and reflecting on his teachings. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-i) Sits alone waiting for the hour of his descent, surrounded by old and new tablets. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-ii) Narrates his coming among men and his disruptive teaching about the creation of values. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-iii) Zarathustra speaks in first person, recalling his teaching of the Superman and redemption, and waits to go down to men for the last time. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-iv) Zarathustra speaks, presenting a new table and calling for brethren to carry his teachings. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-v) Speaker of the chapter, articulating the noble soul's philosophy of reciprocity with life. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-vi) Addresses his brethren as firstlings, speaking of sacrifice and the old idol-priest within. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-vii) Speaker of the chapter, addressing his brethren and calling for the destruction of old moral tables. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-viii) Preaches the thawing wind as a destroyer of fixed values, urging his brethren to proclaim flux. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-ix) Speaker of the chapter, addressing his brethren and critiquing the old illusion of good and evil. ### [On the Old and New Tables](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-x) Zarathustra speaks to his brethren, challenging the sanctity of old moral laws and calling for their destruction. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xi) Speaker and visionary, calling for a new nobility and critiquing the reinterpretation of the past. ### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xii) Consecrates his brethren to a new nobility, urging them to become procreators and cultivators of the future. ### [XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xiii) Zarathustra speaks against the old, musty wisdom that declares life vain, urging his brethren to break the tables of the never-joyous. ### [XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xiv) Delivers a discourse on cleanliness, filth, and the surpassing of the best. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xv) Speaks against the pious backworldsmen, urging his brethren to break their maxims. ### [XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xvi) Zarathustra speaks against the doctrine of weariness and preaches the creative will. ### [XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xvii) Zarathustra delivers a harsh critique of the world-weary, urging them to either embrace life fully or pass away. ### [XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xviii) Addresses his brethren, warning against weariness and slothfulness, and instructing them to protect the weary hero. ### [XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xix) Speaker and guide, warning his brethren about parasites and reflecting on the nature of the highest soul. ### [XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xx) Speaks to his brethren, declaring his role as a prelude to better players and urging them to follow his example. ### [XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xxi) Addresses his brethren, advising them on bravery, choosing foes, and the rule of the best. ### [XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xxii) Speaker of the chapter, delivering a critique of human nature and the necessity of hardship. ### [XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xxiii) Speaker of the chapter's declarations on man, woman, dancing, and laughter. ### [XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xxiv) Speaks on marriage, urging honesty and a focus on the Superman. ### [XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xxv) Delivers a discourse on seeking new fountains and the nature of society as an attempt. ### [XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xxvi) Delivers a prophetic warning about the danger of the good and just. ### [XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xxvii) Addresses his brethren, urging them to break up the good and just. ### [XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xxviii) Zarathustra speaks directly to his brethren, commanding them to break the tables of the good and embark on the high seas of man's future. ### [XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xxix) Speaker of the chapter, addressing his brethren with a call to hardness. ### [The Sign](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-xxx) Zarathustra speaks to his own Will, invoking his deepest self and fate. ### [The Convalescent](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-lvii-the-convalescent) The convalescent who confronts the eternal recurrence and overcomes his disgust at the small man. ### [The Sign](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-i) Zarathustra awakens from his couch like a madman, calling forth his abysmal thought and declaring himself the advocate of living, suffering, and the circuit. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-ii) Lies as if dead for seven days, then convalesces; reflects on his disgust at man and the eternal return; resolves to sing again. ### [LVIII: The Great Longing](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-lviii-the-great-longing) The speaker who addresses his own soul, having given it everything and now urging it to sing. ### [LIX: The Second Dance-Song](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-lix-the-second-dance-song) Dances with Life, confesses his impending departure, and weeps with her. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-i) The speaker and pursuer in the dance, expressing both adoration and frustration toward Life. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-ii) Zarathustra converses intimately with Life, confessing his thoughts of leaving her and ultimately affirming his love for her above Wisdom. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-iii) Speaker of the midnight song, conveying the deep wisdom of night and the eternal yearning of joy. ### [The Seven Seals (Or the Yea and Amen Lay)](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-lx-the-seven-seals) The speaker and protagonist, who expresses his ardent love for eternity and the eternal recurrence through a series of ecstatic affirmations. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-i) The speaker and diviner, full of the divining spirit, wandering between two seas and longing for Eternity. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-ii) Zarathustra speaks in the first person, expressing his wrath against old graves and gods, and his love for eternity. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-iii) Zarathustra speaks in ecstatic terms of his creative power and his love for eternity. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-iv) Zarathustra speaks in first person, declaring his love for eternity and his role as a unifier of opposites. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-v) Zarathustra speaks in the first person, expressing his love for the sea and his ardent desire for Eternity and the ring of return. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-vi) Zarathustra speaks in a poetic, ecstatic tone, expressing his personal virtues and his love for eternity. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iii-vii) Narrates his own flight and love for eternity, and recalls the devil's teaching on pity. ### [LXI: The Honey Sacrifice](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxi-the-honey-sacrifice) Now white-haired, he sits before his cave, reflects on happiness versus work, and ascends a mountain to perform a 'honey sacrifice' that is actually a ruse for fishing for men. ### [The Cry of Distress](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxii-the-cry-of-distress) Sits before his cave, confronts the soothsayer, resists pity, and sets out to find the higher man. ### [LXIII: Talk with the Kings](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxiii-talk-with-the-kings) Zarathustra hides, observes, and then reveals himself to the kings, mocking their eagerness but offering them shelter. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-i) Observes the kings from hiding, then reveals himself and engages them in dialogue about the higher man. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-ii) Zarathustra receives the two kings, listens to their praise of his warlike teachings, and directs them to his cave, instructing them to wait. ### [LXIV: The Leech](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxiv-the-leech) Accidentally treads upon the conscientious man, then sympathetically invites him to his cave. ### [LXV: The Magician](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxv-the-magician) Zarathustra sees through the Magician's performance, strikes him with his staff, and engages in a dialogue about truth, deception, and greatness. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-i) Zarathustra rounds a rock and discovers the higher man; he attempts to help him but is initially unnoticed. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-ii) Zarathustra sees through the Magician's deception, strikes him, and engages in a dialogue about truth and greatness. ### [Out of Service](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxvi-out-of-service) Engages in dialogue with the last pope, reflecting on the death of God and his own ungodliness. ### [LXVII: The Ugliest Man](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxvii-the-ugliest-man) Zarathustra enters the valley of Serpent-death, meets the Ugliest Man, and offers him refuge in his cave. ### [LXVIII: The Voluntary Beggar](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxviii-the-voluntary-beggar) Finds the Voluntary Beggar among the kine, engages in dialogue about wealth and giving, and invites him to his cave. ### [LXIX: The Shadow](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxix-the-shadow) Zarathustra confronts his shadow, feels irritation at the crowding of his mountains, and ultimately offers the shadow shelter in his cave before running away alone to restore his brightness. ### [Noontide](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxx-noontide) Zarathustra experiences a profound noontide sleep, during which he contemplates the perfection of the world and the nature of happiness. ### [LXXI: The Greeting](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxxi-the-greeting) Returns to his cave and finds the higher men assembled; he greets them warmly but declares they are not his true heirs. ### [LXXII: The Supper](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxxii-the-supper) Hosts the supper, organizes the meal, and declares his law for his own. ### [The Higher Man](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxxiii-the-higher-man) Delivers a series of exhortations to the higher men, reflecting on his earlier folly in the marketplace and teaching the way of the Superman. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-i) Narrates his first encounter with men and his realization that the marketplace is no place for higher men. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-ii) Addresses the higher men, declaring the death of God and the coming of the Superman. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-iii) Speaks as the first and only one to ask how man is to be surpassed, not maintained. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-iv) Zarathustra addresses his brethren, exhorting them to cultivate a solitary, eagle-like courage. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-v) Speaker of the chapter, teaching that man must become better and eviler for the Superman. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-vi) Zarathustra speaks to the higher men, rejecting their need for comfort and insisting on greater suffering for growth. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-vii) Speaks of his accumulated wisdom and his intention to blind the men of today with his lightning. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-viii) Delivers a warning to the higher men about the dangers of willing beyond one's power and the value of honesty. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-ix) Speaker of the chapter, addressing the higher men with warnings about distrust, the populace, and the learned. ### [On the Higher Man](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-x) Speaker of the exhortation to the higher men. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-xi) Speaks to the higher men, exhorting them to prioritize their own creative work over neighborly virtue. ### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-xii) Addresses the higher men, speaking of the pain and filth of creation. ### [XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-xiii) Delivers a discourse on virtue, heredity, and the dangers of forced holiness. ### [XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-xiv) Addresses the higher men, urging them to learn play and mockery. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-xv) Zarathustra speaks to the higher men, urging them to embrace their failures and find hope in small, perfect things. ### [XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-xvi) Zarathustra speaks against those who condemn laughter and lack love for the earth. ### [XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-xvii) Zarathustra speaks directly to his brethren, urging them to lift their hearts and legs, and to dance as they near their goals. ### [XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-xviii) Crowns himself with the rose-garland of laughter, embracing his identity as dancer, soothsayer, and sooth-laugher. ### [XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-xix) Addresses the higher men, urging them to dance and reject the sadness of the populace. ### [XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-xx) Speaks as the prophet of laughter and dance, casting the crown of laughter to the higher men. ### [The Song of Melancholy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxxiv-the-song-of-melancholy) Zarathustra leaves the cave briefly to seek fresh air and comfort from his eagle and serpent, expressing love for his animals. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-i) Flees his cave to the open air, seeking purity and stillness away from the higher men. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-ii) Has just left the cave, prompting the magician's speech. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-iii) The speaker and subject of the poem, reflecting on his own nature as a poet and fool. ### [LXXV: Science](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxxv-science) Returns to the cave, throws roses to the conscientious one, and counters his view by asserting that courage is the primitive history of man. ### [Among Daughters of the Desert](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxxvi-among-daughters-of-the-desert) Addressed by the shadow, who urges him to stay and praises the strong, clear air of his cave. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-i) Addressed by the shadow; his cave provides strong, clear air. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-ii) The speaker, sitting in an oasis, reflecting on the desert and his European nature. ### [LXXVII: The Awakening](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxxvii-the-awakening) Observes the higher men's noisy convalescence and later their absurd worship of the ass, feeling both victory and astonishment. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-i) Observes the higher men's laughter and feels relief, reflecting on their convalescence and his victory over the spirit of gravity. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-ii) Observes his guests from the entrance, astonished by their sudden piety and worship of the ass. ### [The Ass-Festival](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxxviii-the-ass-festival) Interrupts the ass-festival, rebukes the higher men for their idolatry, and later blesses their joyful celebration as a sign of convalescence. ### [The Ass Festival](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-i) Interrupts the ass festival, rebukes the guests, and engages in dialogue about their idolatry. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-ii) Zarathustra rebukes his guests for their childish piety and reaffirms his commitment to the earthly realm. ### [III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-iii) Speaks to the higher men, blessing the ass-festival and urging them to remember it. ### [The Drunken Song](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxxix-the-drunken-song) Leads the ugliest man into the night, becomes drunken and visionary, delivers the midnight song on joy and eternity. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-i) Leads the ugliest man and the higher men into the night, showing them the moon and waterfalls, and reflects silently on how pleased he is with them. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-ii) Stands drunken and speechless after the ugliest man's appearance, then hears the midnight bell and calls the higher men to wander. ### [The Night Song and the Midnight](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-iii) Zarathustra addresses the higher men, speaking with the voice of the midnight bell. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-iv) Zarathustra reflects on time and his own death, speaking in a prophetic and urgent tone to the higher man. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-v) Speaker and guide, calling the higher men to dance and overcome their earthly bounds. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-vi) Speaker of the lyrical invocation, addressing the higher men. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-vii) Zarathustra speaks in a soliloquy, rejecting the day and the world as too coarse, and affirming his identity as a pure, deep midnight-soul. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-viii) Zarathustra speaks as a drunken sweet lyre, lamenting that the higher men do not understand him. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-ix) Zarathustra speaks to the grapevine, embodying the cruel vintner and reflecting on suffering and joy. ### [The Intoxicated Song](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-x) Speaks in an ecstatic, prophetic tone, declaring the perfection of the world and the eternal recurrence. ### [XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-xi) Addresses the higher men, teaching that joy wants eternity and all things, including woe. ### [XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-xii) Zarathustra exhorts the higher men to sing his roundelay, revealing the deep wisdom of midnight. ### [LXXX: The Sign](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/chapters/part-iv-lxxx-the-sign) Awakens at dawn, interprets the doves and lion as a sign, overcomes his fellow-suffering, and prepares for his work. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters/zarathustra - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/thus_spoke_zarathustra_se/characters