Become the Übermensch

Striving Beyond Human Limits

Is man permitted to strive to become a demigod? During my morning walk, I find myself inspired by sculptures positioned along the river and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Along the rooftop of the museum, there are depictions of ancient Greek gods. There are also sculptures that showcase various revolutionary heroes throughout the back along the grass.

When I visited Rome, I felt inspired by the grand architecture, artwork, churches, music, and especially the sculptures that I found during my trip to Florence. In Florence, I had the opportunity to bask in the glory of Greek demigods such as Achilles and Hercules. Actually, a few weeks ago, I attended the antique show at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and looked closely at a print of the Farnese Hercules.

Hercules is the apex of beauty in terms of male physical physique. When I look at a sculpture, they are typically larger than life, filled with grandeur, muscles, tone, and the quality that elevates the human experience and spirit to a new height. When you stand in front of a sculpture, you must look up at it. You look up at the sculpture and you are in amazement. When you see something like this, it inspires you to strive for more.

No Pain, No Gain

Think of the story of Hercules, descending to Hades to capture Cerberus, the three-headed dog guarding the entrance to the underworld. This was the final task of Hercules during his 12 labors. While these labors were punishment to Hercules, through his suffering, he sought redemption, gained strength, courage, and became the legend that he is today.

When I consider the myth of Sisyphus, pushing his boulder uphill, I’m reminded to enjoy the process and find joy in pain or suffering. While his task of pushing the rock never reaches the top and always rolls back to the bottom, there is a lesson there to learn from. While it may seem absurd, we too should strive to enjoy the pain, the suffering, and find meaning in it. We must accept our fate and love it.

Amor Fati