Nietzsche am Golf von Neapel

Abstract

Based on Nietzsche’s notes and letters about his stay in the Gulf of Naples
in 1876-77, the article outlines the author’s relationship to Italy and its significance
for his philosophy. Nietzsche’s journeys to Italy don’t follow
the pattern of a classical educational “Grand Tour”. He makes a case
against the upcoming sightseeing-tourism and proposes to actively get
impressions during a journey. The new, accelerated way of travelling in
the beginning age of the railways is also reflected in Nietzsche’s new
aphoristic style of writing. The trip to Naples will become a profound
event that quickens his renunciation of former philosophical positions.
Nietzsche’s art-historical reflections focus on the decreasing importance
of sacral architecture in the past-religious epoch which he foresees.