Essay Question: On page 76 of 'Mans Search for Meaning', Viktor Frankl quotes Nietzsche who says, "He who has a why to live for can bear with almost any how." Wha does this statement mean? Explain how Frankl was able to develop this insight from intial shock through apathy and to the cultivation of an inner world."
Thesis: Frankl suggests that having a clear purpose in life enables individuals to endure mental challenges and transform their suffering into motivation, empowering them to overcome obstacles. This idea emphasizes the importance of meaning in our lives. When we know why we are doing something, it helps us push through tough times and use our struggles as a source of strength.
Phase 1: Entry
Main point: The first phase of the camp that prisoners endured was where they mostly felt shock and went into a state of denial, fueling them with a false sense of hope.
In shock of the environemtn they're surrounded in
denial of the situation they're in
uncertain of their future
grief
pain
hope
fear
Phase 2: Entrenchment
Main Point: Once they’ve adapted more to their environment, they use the hardships they’re going through as a sense of motivation to survive the camp.
Apathy (Loss of Emotion)
consistently working in camp
accepting their fate
surrendered hope
loss of hope
ill/sick
tired
Phase 3
Main point: Prisoners are now focused on trying to find their purpose in life after the camp.
confused as to what they're supposed to do now and where they're supposed to go because they've adapted to life in the camp.
careless due to trauma from camp
happiness
tension
Abuse
Main point: Prisoners have to endure hardships and harness mental toughness within themselves to overcome the abuse they are encountering.
Shaved
tattooed (numbers)
killed
whipped
starvation
beat
verbal
cautious
anxious
gas chamber
death
Mental State
Main point: Prisoners utilize apathy to help them become numb to the dehumanizing and traumatic events that are happening arund them.
strong
weak
purpose
holding ones peace
meaning
hope
motivation
resilience
Purpose
Main Point: Trying to find their purpose in life after witnessing numerous traumatizing events.
being something
faith
goal
perseverance
individuality
path