The Antichrist

What It's About

Written in 1888, shortly before the author's mental collapse, this is one of philosophy's most uncompromising attacks on Christianity. It argues that the religion grew out of resentment and weakness. In his view it turned pity, humility and self-denial into virtues, and so worked against strength, health and the affirmation of life. He separates the figure of Jesus, whom he reads as a gentle, almost Buddha-like type who lived peace rather than preached doctrine, from the church that followed. Paul comes in for the harshest treatment, accused of turning that example into a system of guilt, judgement and priestly power. The book is intentionally furious and sweeping, and critics have long noted that its caricature of Christianity and its rhetorical excess sit uneasily beside its sharper insights. It remains a landmark in the modern critique of religion.

Key Concepts

Central ideas include pity as a force that spreads weakness, the priest as a figure who gains power by cultivating guilt, and faith as the enemy of honest inquiry. The book also draws on his idea of the will to power, setting life-affirming values against life-denying ones. Buddhism is held up as a more honest and realistic religion, and the contrast between Jesus and Paul runs through the whole argument.

About the Author

Friedrich Nietzsche (1844–1900) was a German philosopher and classical philologist, born in Prussian Saxony. He became a professor at Basel at just 24, but chronic ill health forced him to resign in 1879. He spent the following decade writing in near-solitude, travelling between Swiss, Italian and French lodgings. He suffered a mental collapse in 1889 and lived out his last years in the care of his mother and sister.

About This Edition

This is a 1920 translation by H. L. Mencken.