Friedrich Nietzsche was a nineteenth-century German philosopher, philologist, writer, poet, and cultural critic. He is still well-known and highly respected for his invaluable contribution to modern philosophy and intellectual history, as well as his impressive thoughts about the human spirit and psyche. Nietzsche was extremely interested in exploring the origins of Greek tragedy, as well as finding out to what extent art can influence and enhance the health and growth of individuals.
In his tremendously significant book, The Birth of Tragedy, Nietzsche discusses the nature of the tragedy and provides his profound ideas regarding how the Greek model may be used to understand the modern culture’s decline and possible rebirth. According to Nietzsche, two powerful primary forces make art work, and he identifies them with two Greek gods: Apollo and Dionisius. The former is the rationale, calm, and logical power aiming to weaken and harness the latter, the dynamic and chaotic force (Nietzsche, 1886). This is some kind of a problem that means that the passion, enthusiasm, and even unpredictability of both Greek tragedies and the art and life of the nineteenth century were and are being repressed (Nietzsche, 1886). Thus, to truly revive the modern culture, Nietzsche considered it necessary to begin to pay more respect to Dionisius and his energy of chaotic life movements.
I agree with the philosopher’s opinion and think that this is precisely what is needed to make art more lively, energetic, and capable of awakening feelings and emotions. After all, this is precisely the purpose of art as a source of inspiration, passion, ideas, and dreams. Only such art can positively influence human health and growth. Moreover, since, according to Nietzsche, art and Greek tragedy, in particular, have two initial forces, they should always be and used equally for their influence to be balanced.
Reference
Nietzsche, F. (1886). The birth of tragedy. Holtof.