# Chapter 122 explained — Beyond Good and Evil

> Chapter companion for Beyond Good and Evil by Friedrich Nietzsche.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### The Narrator

Offers the psychological distinction between graciousness and vanity.

## Key lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/beyond_good_and_evil_se/chapters/122
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/beyond_good_and_evil_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/beyond_good_and_evil_se/chapters