Hubris + Outrage
Hubris, sometimes spelled hybris (ancient Greek ὕβρις), is a term used in modern English to indicate overweening pride, self-confidence, superciliousness, or arrogance, often resulting in fatal retribution. In ancient Greece, hubris referred to actions which, intentionally or not, shamed and humiliated the victim, and frequently the perpetrator as well. It was most evident in the public and private actions of the powerful and rich. The word was also used to describe actions of those who challenged the gods or their laws, especially in Greek tragedy, resulting in the protagonist's downfall.
Hubris, though not specifically defined, was a legal term and was considered a crime in classical Athens. It was also considered the greatest sin of the ancient Greek world. That was so because it not only was proof of excessive pride, but also resulted in violent acts by or to those involved. The category of acts constituting hubris for the ancient Greeks apparently broadened from the original specific reference to mutilation of a corpse, or a humiliation of a defeated foe, or irreverent "outrageous treatment" in general.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hubris
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
3 comments:
Beware when you are dealing with Horsemen! They (and you might not believe this!?) really think that people are envious of them and that the protoganist wants to be "Champion the Wonder Horse".
Dressing up in a fancy uniform on parade, does not make a Champion. They think of their rivals as a Sidewinder poised to strike and they get spooked out. It is really peculiar but that is where it is at.
Aristotle defined hubris as follows: to cause shame to the victim, not in order that anything may happen to you, nor because anything has happened to you, but merely for your own gratification.
More of the same:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hubris
Post a Comment