← All chapters
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.
Themes 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.