Existentialism from Dostoevsky to Sartre

Walter Kaufmann's anthology presents key texts from major existentialist thinkers, ranging from Dostoevsky to Sartre. The book includes translated excerpts and Kaufmann's commentary on each philosopher's contribution to existentialist thought. The collection features writings from Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, Heidegger, Jaspers, and other influential figures who shaped existentialism. Kaufmann's translations and introductory notes provide context for each selection, connecting the various philosophical perspectives across time and nationality. The work traces existentialism's development from its roots in 19th century literature through its emergence as a dominant philosophical movement in the mid-20th century. The selected texts showcase how each thinker approached fundamental questions about human existence, authenticity, and freedom. This compilation serves as both an academic resource and an exploration of existentialism's central themes: individual responsibility, the search for meaning, and humanity's relationship with God. Through these collected works, readers encounter the movement's complex intellectual heritage and its lasting impact on modern philosophy.

Readers value this anthology as an introduction to existentialist philosophy through primary source excerpts, though many note it works best alongside other texts for deeper understanding. Liked: - Clear organization and progression of ideas - Strong selection of key existentialist writings - Kaufmann's introductions provide context - Includes lesser-known works alongside famous passages Disliked: - Some translations feel dated or awkward - Excerpts can feel too brief or disconnected - Kaufmann's commentary shows bias against certain thinkers - Missing important female existentialist writers Several readers mention the book works better as a supplement rather than standalone text. One reviewer noted: "It gives you a taste but leaves you wanting the full works." Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (190+ ratings) Common feedback suggests reading this as an overview before tackling complete works by individual philosophers. Multiple readers recommend pairing it with "Basic Writings of Existentialism" by Gordon Marino for broader coverage.

Basic Writings of Existentialism by Maurice Natanson This collection presents primary texts from major existentialist thinkers including Kierkegaard, Nietzsche, and Camus with historical context and philosophical analysis.

The Cambridge Companion to Existentialism by Steven Crowell The text examines existentialism through systematic philosophical analysis, covering themes of freedom, authenticity, and anxiety across multiple existentialist writers.

Irrational Man: A Study in Existential Philosophy by William Barrett This work traces existentialism's development from its roots in European philosophy through its influence on modern thought, art, and literature.

The Philosophy of Jean-Paul Sartre by Robert Denoon Cumming The book provides selections from Sartre's philosophical writings with detailed commentary on his concepts of consciousness, freedom, and responsibility.

At the Existentialist Café: Freedom, Being, and Apricot Cocktails by Sarah Bakewell The text weaves together biographical accounts of major existentialist figures with explanations of their key philosophical concepts and historical context.

🔹 Walter Kaufmann, while best known for his work on existentialism, was also one of the most influential translators of Nietzsche's works and helped rehabilitate Nietzsche's reputation in the English-speaking world after WWII. 🔹 The book includes the first English translation of Jean-Paul Sartre's influential lecture "Existentialism Is a Humanism," which became one of the most widely read introductions to existentialist thought. 🔹 Despite featuring "Dostoevsky" in the title, the author notes that Dostoevsky never identified himself as an existentialist - the term wasn't even coined until after his death. He's included because his works powerfully express existentialist themes. 🔹 Several passages in the book were censored or altered in early editions due to their controversial nature, including some of Nietzsche's more provocative statements about Christianity and morality. 🔹 Kaufmann wrote this anthology while teaching at Princeton University, where he developed a reputation for challenging students to question traditional philosophical assumptions - much like the existentialist thinkers he wrote about.