Tragic Sense of Life

Tragic Sense of Life (in Spanish, Del sentimiento trágico de la vida) is a philosophical work written by Miguel de Unamuno, a prominent Spanish philosopher, writer, and existentialist of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The book delves into themes of existentialism, faith, and the human condition. In Tragic Sense of Life, Miguel de Unamuno grapples with the fundamental questions of human existence and the meaning of life. He explores the complex and often paradoxical relationship between reason and faith, intellect and emotion, and the struggle to find meaning in a seemingly indifferent or hostile universe. Unamuno argues that humans have an inherent desire for immortality and an eternal truth, yet the uncertainty of life, the inevitability of death, and the limits of human understanding create a sense of existential anguish and tragedy. He delves into the inner conflicts and anxieties that arise from this confrontation between the desire for certainty and the awareness of our mortal nature. The author critiques the rationalism and scientific positivism of his time, asserting that reason alone cannot provide ultimate answers or fulfill the deeper yearnings of the human soul. He advocates for an embrace of the irrational, the passionate, and the unknown as crucial elements of the human experience. Throughout the book, Unamuno weaves in his personal struggles and experiences, infusing the philosophical exploration with a sense of authenticity and introspection. He invites readers to confront their own existential uncertainties and grapple with the enigma of human existence.