The Gospel of Suffering

Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855) – a Danish philosopher, theologian, writer, and critic – is rightly considered both a precursor and at the same time the founder of European existentialism. In the works included in this collection, Søren Kierkegaard reflects on the meaning of suffering in human life and poses an unexpected ethical question about the responsibility of a person who uncompromisingly asserts the truth of their faith. According to the author's logic, such a position can lead those who disagree into sin and provoke them to commit the most terrible crimes. And what then is virtue? – asks Kierkegaard. And how to uphold one's principles without generating new evil?