Abstract

This study explores the intersection of the philosophy of Martin Heidegger and Spanish literature. The study examines the Heideggerian authenticity and inauthenticity of two characters in the literature: Melibea in La Celestina by Fernando de Rojas and Grisóstomo in Don Quijote de la Mancha by Miguel de Cervantes. Heidegger’s concept of authenticity is the ability of the individual to live in the world according to her own desires, outside of the influence of others. Both die by suicide, but Melibea is an authentic character in Heideggerian terms and Grisóstomo is inauthentic. At the end of her life, Melibea has resolved all anxiety into resoluteness and is determined to live life in her own terms. Grisóstomo, however, dies inauthentically, full of anxiety and subject to the will of Others. He never leaves the influence of others to live a life of his own determination.

Degree

College and Department

Humanities; Spanish and Portuguese

Rights

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