When Nietzsche Wept (novel)
| Company type | Novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Literature |
| Founded | 1992 |
| Founder | Irvin D. Yalom |
| Products | Book |
When Nietzsche Wept is a novel published in 1992 by Irvin D. Yalom, Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry at Stanford University, who is both an existentialist thinker and practicing psychotherapist. Primarily set in Vienna during 1882, the narrative imagines an encounter between the physician Josef Breuer and the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. It delves into the origins of philosophy and psychoanalysis, with a particular emphasis on the concept of "limerence".
Plot
The novel begins with Lou Salomé, associated with Nietzsche, expressing concern that German philosophy’s future is endangered and that Nietzsche is in urgent need of assistance. The central storyline revolves around a therapeutic exchange where Doctor Breuer attempts to resolve his emotional distress stemming from a previous hysterical patient, while Nietzsche contends with severe headaches. Guided by his protégé Sigmund Freud, Breuer embarks on an innovative treatment method that lays the groundwork for psychoanalysis. Their engagement significantly transforms their philosophies and motivates Nietzsche to compose Thus Spoke Zarathustra.
References to famous personalities
Yalom’s work integrates numerous historical figures including Josef and Mathilde Breuer, Nietzsche, Lou Salomé, Freud, Bertha Pappenheim, Paul Rée, Franz Overbeck, and the composer Richard Wagner.
Adaptations
In 2007, the novel was turned into an independent American film directed by Pinchas Perry, featuring actors Armand Assante, Ben Cross, and Katheryn Winnick, with filming conducted in Bulgaria.
A theatrical adaptation by Luciano Cazaux casts Luciano Suardi and Claudio Da Passano as Nietzsche and Breuer respectively. This stage rendition highlights the intellectual milieu of the period and employs contrasting costumes to symbolize differing viewpoints. It has garnered generally favorable critiques for its acting.
Another stage version premiered in 2012 to commemorate Lou Salomé’s 150th birthday, directed by Evangelia Andritsanou. This production involved three male performers taking on multiple characters, including Sigmund Freud portrayed by award-winning actor Haris Fragoulis. Female roles were conveyed through narration and vocal performance by the male cast.
See also
- When Nietzsche Wept, film adaptation
- The Schopenhauer Cure