Tracing the chains of thought in the aphoristic writing of Ludwig Hohl (with reference to several aspects of the aphoristic writing of Friedrich Nietzsche and Peter Handke)

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Sattler, Alexandra (2016). Tracing the chains of thought in the aphoristic writing of Ludwig Hohl (with reference to several aspects of the aphoristic writing of Friedrich Nietzsche and Peter Handke). University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

This thesis investigates the use of aphorism in the work (\(Notizenwerk\)) of Ludwig Hohl and selected passages of Friedrich Nietzsche and Peter Handke in order to demonstrate the connections (Zusammenhänge) between aphorisms, taking seriously what aphoristic writers say about their own work, i.e. that aphorisms are the result of long secret chains of thought (Nietzsche). The study thereby addresses a gap in the research identified by Neumann. Concurring with Fedler, this thesis understands aphorism as combining conceptual with metaphorical (non-conceptual) thought and chains of thought are investigated on different levels. The dissertation illustrates that aphoristic writers dissolve conceptual boundaries and have elaborate concepts of phantasy (\(Phantasie\)), confirming Blumenberg’s view that wherever the conceptual is questioned, phantasy will be re-evaluated. In the course of this, Kassner’s influence on Hohl and Hohl’s influence on Handke will be shown. With the help of Begriffsgeschichte the thesis will demonstrate unity underlying Hohl’s Notizen, that aphorisms are capable of expressing a complex life-affirming theory, and that furthermore the aphorism cannot be understood without an existential, ineffable and personal dimension. An ontological fragmentariness underlies aphoristic writing, meaning that there is no opposition between aphorism and fragment and that instead aphorisms are inherently fragmentary.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):