Man’s Search for Meaning Essay (4-5 pages)
Outline due Monday, March 17th
Essay due Thursday, March 20th
Frankl titles Part II of his text “Logotherapy in a Nutshell.” Scholars suggest his thesis here can be reduced to the Freidrich Nietzsche quote (Remember, Frankl himself cites it on numerous occasions):
“He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how.”
Demonstrating control/understanding of Part II of the text, I want you to discuss how the above quote represents a “nutshell” version of Frankl’s logotherapy. While the focus of your discussion will be Part II, use examples from Part I to illustrate your discussion. This essay is unlike English essays of the past! Your thesis is actually what you believe to be Frankl’s argument.
Now the real challenge! I expect you to weave one of the academics/philosophers whom we have read thus far into the discussion. So, how does Sartre, Kierkegaard, Schopenhauer, Camus or Barrett help to shape the above discussion of Frankl’s philosophy? IMPORTANT: While Sartre (for instance) is used to give some form to the discussion (i.e. helping to shape the thesis), the discussion is focused on exploring Frankl’s message and how he develops that message. While not necessary, I would encourage you to research Frankl further to give you further context. Folks, I expect this essay to demonstrate great thematic/philosophical control of both texts. Waiting till the night before is probably not a good idea. Your reading responses and annotations should prove to be quite beneficial here. This should be typed in font size 12 (times new roman or arial). You should have a title!!! The title should reflect your thesis. If you have any questions, please email me.
