# Chapter 171 explained — Beyond Good and Evil

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

## What happens

A brief aphorism describing the incongruous and almost ridiculous effect of pity on a man of knowledge, comparing it to tender hands on a Cyclops.

## Themes in this chapter

### Psychology as the Fundamental Science

Analyzes the psychological effect of pity on a specific type—the man of knowledge—revealing an incongruous and weakening dynamic.

## Character check-ins

### The Narrator

Delivers the aphoristic observation on pity and knowledge.

## Key lines

> Pity has an almost ludicrous effect on a man of knowledge, like tender hands on a Cyclops.

Pity is absurd and misplaced when directed at a man of knowledge, as inappropriate as delicate caresses on a monstrous giant.

_Highlights the mismatch between the emotion of pity and the nature of the knower, suggesting pity is a softening, weakening force._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/beyond_good_and_evil_se/chapters/171
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/beyond_good_and_evil_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/beyond_good_and_evil_se/chapters