The Spinoza Problem: a novel

Dive into 'The Spinoza Problem', a captivating historical fiction novel by Irvin D. Yalom that intricately weaves together the lives of two drastically different men across three centuries. Set in 1909, the story follows sixteen-year-old Alfred Rosenburg, a budding anti-Semite whose encounter with the philosophy of Baruch Spinoza through Goethe's writings ignites a tumultuous inner conflict. As Rosenburg grapples with the intense legacy of Spinoza, excommunicated for his revolutionary beliefs, readers are drawn into a philosophical exploration of genius versus evil. This novel not only emphasizes the profound impact of Enlightenment thinkers but also delves into the psychological struggles that shaped Rosenburg's dark transformation from schoolboy to Nazi propagandist. Perfect for seekers of thought-provoking literature, 'The Spinoza Problem' opens discussions on morality, identity, and the philosophical roots of prejudice. Experience Yalom's masterful storytelling as he brings to life the stark contrasts between two intellectual trajectories, engaging readers from all walks of life. Ideal for fans of historical novels, philosophical fiction, and those interested in Jewish philosophy and its intricate history within Europe. Don’t miss your chance to explore this poignant narrative that confronts challenging themes of race, morality, and the human condition. This paperback edition, published by Scribe Publications in 2012, contains 336 pages of profound insights and literary brilliance. Enjoy FREE shipping on this remarkable reading experience today!

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781921844287
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2012
Publisher: Scribe Publications
Pages: 336


Description:
In 1909, sixteen-year-old Alfred Rosenburg is called into his headmaster's office for making anti-Semitic remarks. He is punished by having to memorise passages from the autobiography of Goethe - and is stunned to discover that his idol was a great admirer of the seventeenth-century philosopher Baruch Spinoza.

Spinoza himself was no stranger to punishment- accused of heresy, he was excommunicated from the Jewish community and banished from the only world he had ever known. Nevertheless, he became one of the most influential philosophers of his age.

Long after graduation, Rosenberg is possessed by the 'Spinoza problem'- how could Goethe, the great German poet, have been inspired by a member of a race that Rosenburg considers inferior to his own? A race, that as he develops from anti-Semitic schoolboy to Nazi propagandist, he becomes determined to destroy?

In this brilliant re-creation of the inner worlds of two men separated by 300 years - one dedicated to fashioning a moral philosophy, the other obsessed with the superiority of the Aryan race - internationally bestselling novelist Irvin D. Yalom explores the thin psychological line that separates genius and evil, and the lives of two men who changed the course of history.



'Spinoza had no 'real life' outside his reading and writing- he lived in his brilliant mind. So how do you write about a philosopher - a writer beloved of Goethe, Schopenhauer, and so many other thinkers - who spent most of his time in thought? And how do you regard Spinoza - a Jew whose work helped to usher in the Enlightenment - if, indeed, you're a Nazi? Irvin Yalom is just the writer to take on such a problem, and he solves it, with his own novelistic brilliance,
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