XX explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• The Übermensch and Self-Overcoming

  The call to 'dance beyond yourselves' and the consecration of laughter embody the self-overcoming required for the Übermensch.

• Critique of Herd Morality

  Zarathustra's praise of the 'unruly spirit' hostile to 'populace-dogs' and 'sullen brood' critiques the herd mentality and celebrates individual freedom.

Characters to notice

• Zarathustra

  Speaks as the prophet of laughter and dance, casting the crown of laughter to the higher men.

• The Higher Men

  Addressed directly by Zarathustra, criticized for not having learned to dance or laugh beyond themselves.

Key passages

• “Do like unto the wind when it rusheth forth from its mountain-caves: unto its own piping will it dance; the seas tremble and leap under its footsteps.”

  Be like the wind that bursts from mountain caves, dancing to its own tune and making the seas tremble.

  Zarathustra uses the wind as a metaphor for a free, self-determined spirit.

• “Ye higher men, the worst thing in you is that ye have none of you learned to dance as ye ought to dance—to dance beyond yourselves!”

  You higher men, your greatest failing is that you have not learned to dance properly—to transcend yourselves through dance.

  Zarathustra criticizes the higher men for lacking the ability to surpass their own limitations.

• “This crown of the laughter, this rose-garland crown: to you my brethren do I cast this crown! Laughing have I consecrated; ye higher men, learn, I pray you—to laugh!”

  I throw to you the crown of laughter, a garland of roses. I have sanctified laughter; higher men, I beg you—learn to laugh!

  Zarathustra consecrates laughter as a sacred act and urges the higher men to embrace it.