Resurrection from the Underground Book Summary

In 'Resurrection from the Underground', René Girard explores the intricate relationship between desire and violence, dissecting human behavior through the lens of literary analysis. He argues that our desires are not autonomous but rather shaped by the desires of others, leading to inevitable rivalries and conflict. Girard delves into the implications of this mimetic desire, suggesting it can either lead to destruction or ultimately to redemption through understanding and sacrifice. The book intertwines philosophy, psychology, and theology, challenging readers to rethink the foundations of societal norms and personal relationships. With profound insights and a provocative examination of the human condition, Girard invites us to confront the shadows of our desires and the path to genuine resurrection.

By René Girard

Published: 2012

""In the depths of despair, we often find the truest reflection of our desires and fears, revealing the intricate dance between sacrifice and salvation that defines the human experience.""

Resurrection from the UndergroundBook binding

Start Listening to Book Summary

0:000:00

Book Review of Resurrection from the Underground

In a fascinating analysis of critical themes in Feodor Dostoevsky’s work, René Girard explores the implications of the Russian author’s “underground,” a site of isolation, alienation, and resentment. Brilliantly translated, this book is a testament to Girard’s remarkable engagement with Dostoevsky’s work, through which he discusses numerous aspects of the human condition, including desire, which Girard argues is “triangular” or “mimetic”—copied from models or mediators whose objects of desire become our own. Girard’s interdisciplinary approach allows him to shed new light on religion, spirituality, and redemption in Dostoevsky’s writing, culminating in a revelatory discussion of the author’s spiritual understanding and personal integration. Resurrection is an essential and thought-provoking companion to Dostoevsky’s Notes from the Underground.

Book Overview of Resurrection from the Underground

About the Book Author

R

René Girard

René Girard (1923-2015) was a French philosopher, literary critic, and cultural anthropologist known for his groundbreaking theories on mimetic desire, scapegoating, and the role of violence in human culture. His notable works include 'Deceit, Desire, and the Novel' (1961), 'Violence and the Sacred' (1972), and 'Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World' (1978). Girard's writing style blends philosophical rigor with literary analysis, offering deep insights into the dynamics of human relationships and societal structures. His ideas have influenced a range of disciplines, including literature, theology, and social sciences, making him a pivotal figure in contemporary thought.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
René Girard
Published
January 2012
Publisher
Michigan State University Press
ISBN
1611860377
Language
English
Pages
120
Genres
TheologyEastern PhilosophyPsychology of EmotionsWestern PhilosophyPhilosophy of MindPhilosophyPsychologySpirituality and Religion

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

Black EdgeBook binding

Black Edge Book Summary

In "Black Edge," investigative journalist Sheelah Kolhatkar delves into the high-stakes world of hedge funds and the enigmatic figure of Steven A. Cohen. As she unravels the saga of insider trading, greed, and Wall Street's murky ethics, the book pulls readers into a gripping tale of ambition that spans decades. With intellectual prowess and audacious risk-taking, Cohen's rise to power raises questions about the moral compass of finance. Kolhatkar's penetrating analysis unveils the dark side of wealth and the relentless pursuit of success, leaving readers questioning the true cost of ambition. Will you dare to uncover the secrets of a financial titan and the shadowy underworld they inhabit?

Black Edge
Sheelah Kolhatkar
When Genius FailedBook binding

When Genius Failed Book Summary

When Genius Failed chronicles the dramatic rise and fall of Long-Term Capital Management, a hedge fund that boasted an elite team of financial wizards. As it navigates the complexities of high-stakes finance and groundbreaking quantitative models, the book unveils how overconfidence in genius can lead to catastrophic consequences. When the Asian financial crisis strikes, the fund’s intricate strategies unravel, threatening the global economy. Authors Roger Lowenstein masterfully intertwine personal narratives with economic theory, revealing the fragile balance between risk and reward. This gripping tale serves as a cautionary reminder that brilliance can blind us to the dangers lurking beneath the surface.

When Genius Failed
Roger Lowenstein
Security Analysis: The Classic 1934 EditionBook binding

Security Analysis: The Classic 1934 Edition Book Summary

Security Analysis, authored by Benjamin Graham and David Dodd, unveils the art of valuing investments through a detailed lens of fundamental analysis. This classic masterpiece promotes the philosophy of value investing, encouraging readers to dive deep into financial statements rather than relying on market trends. With timeless principles and practical frameworks, it teaches how to uncover hidden gems in the stock market. As markets fluctuate, the authors remind us that understanding intrinsic value can lead to exceptional financial decisions. Are you ready to transform your investment strategies and unlock the secrets of successful investing?

Security Analysis: The Classic 1934 Edition
Benjamin Graham, David Le Fevre Dodd
Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits and Other WritingsBook binding

Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits and Other Writings Book Summary

In "Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits," legendary investor Philip A. Fisher shares his groundbreaking approach to evaluating stocks, emphasizing the importance of understanding a company's long-term potential rather than just its current prices. Fisher introduces the "15 Points to Look for in a Common Stock," a comprehensive checklist that reveals the qualities of truly exceptional companies. With insightful anecdotes and practical wisdom, he challenges traditional investment strategies and highlights the significance of a strong management team. As readers delve into his meticulous analysis, they discover how to identify growth opportunities that others might overlook. This classic investment guide is not just a manual for profits; it's an invitation to think differently about wealth creation.

Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits and Other Writings
Philip A. Fisher
Business AdventuresBook binding

Business Adventures Book Summary

In "Business Adventures," renowned author John Brooks takes readers on a captivating journey through twelve compelling tales of corporate triumphs and failures. These real-world stories illuminate the timeless lessons of business, from the stock market collapse of 1962 to the explosive rise of Xerox. Each narrative is densely packed with intrigue, showcasing the human elements that drive decisions and shape outcomes in the corporate world. With sharp insights and humor, Brooks reveals the unpredictable nature of business that still resonates today. Prepare to be fascinated by the compelling drama that unfolds in the boardrooms and backrooms where fortunes are made and lost.

Business Adventures
John Brooks
The OutsidersBook binding

The Outsiders Book Summary

In 'The Outsiders,' William Thorndike reveals the captivating stories of unconventional leaders who defy the norms of Wall Street and common business wisdom. These mavericks, often overlooked or underestimated, demonstrate that true success comes from deep analytical thinking and a long-term vision. Through engaging case studies, Thorndike uncovers the secret principles that set these extraordinary outsiders apart from their peers. Readers are invited into a world where decision-making is grounded in value creation and discipline rather than mere trends. This thought-provoking exploration challenges conventional beliefs and beckons aspiring leaders to reassess their own paths to success.

The Outsiders
William Thorndike
Poor Charlie’s AlmanackBook binding

Poor Charlie’s Almanack Book Summary

Poor Charlie’s Almanack is an enlightening compilation of wisdom from Charlie Munger, the renowned vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway and lifelong partner of Warren Buffett. This thought-provoking collection delves into Munger's unique principles of investing, decision-making, and life philosophy, rich with wit and insight. Through anecdotes, illustrations, and a treasure trove of mental models, readers are inspired to think critically and embrace diverse perspectives. Munger’s emphasis on lifelong learning and rational thought challenges conventional thinking and encourages harnessing multidisciplinary knowledge for personal and professional success. Unlock the secrets of Munger’s remarkable intellect and discover how they can transform your approach to wealth and wisdom.

Poor Charlie’s Almanack
Charles T. Munger
The Little Book of Common Sense InvestingBook binding

The Little Book of Common Sense Investing Book Summary

In 'The Little Book of Common Sense Investing,' John C. Bogle lays out a compelling case for a simple, yet effective, investment strategy that anyone can apply. He champions the power of low-cost indexing, which allows average investors to outperform the majority of actively managed funds over time. Bogle stresses the importance of patience and discipline in the face of market volatility, urging readers to ignore the noise of financial markets. With clear insights and straightforward advice, this book is a treasure trove for both novice and seasoned investors alike. Discover how to make your money work harder for you with strategies rooted in common sense!

The Little Book of Common Sense Investing
John C. Bogle

Showing 8 of 30 similar books

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Similar Book Recommendations →

Michael Pollan's Book Recommendations

Michael Pollan's Book Recommendations

Michael Pollan is a renowned American author and journalist, celebrated for his insightful explorations of food, agriculture, and human culture. His groundbreaking book, "The Omnivore's Dilemma," published in 2006, critically examines the complexities of the modern food industry and has become a seminal work in food studies. Pollan's engaging narrative style and thorough research have earned him a place on The New York Times Best Seller list multiple times. In addition to his literary contributions, he is also a professor of journalism at the University of California, Berkeley. Pollan's work continues to influence public discourse on sustainable eating and the ethical implications of food choices.

Health and NutritionInspiring ReadsMemoirs and Biographies
Ricardo Semler's Book Recommendations

Ricardo Semler's Book Recommendations

Ricardo Semler is a Brazilian businessman and author, known for his radical approach to corporate management, which emphasizes employee autonomy and democratic decision-making. As the CEO of Semco Partners, Semler transformed his family business into one of the most successful companies in Brazil by allowing employees to control many aspects of their work environment. His management philosophy, outlined in his book Maverick, has inspired companies around the world to adopt more flexible, employee-driven practices. Semler is also an advocate for rethinking education and leadership, and his ideas continue to influence business leaders globally.

Business and LeadershipInspiring ReadsSuccess Stories and Life Lessons
Naval Ravikant's Book Recommendations

Naval Ravikant's Book Recommendations

Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.

Business and LeadershipInspiring ReadsLife AdviceMindfulnessSuccess Stories and Life Lessons
Steve Jobs's Book Recommendations

Steve Jobs's Book Recommendations

Steve Jobs was an American entrepreneur, inventor, and co-founder of Apple Inc., known for revolutionizing the personal computing, music, and smartphone industries. Jobs’ vision for technology was focused on simplicity, innovation, and user experience, leading to the development of iconic products like the Macintosh, iPod, iPhone, and iPad. He also co-founded Pixar Animation Studios, which became one of the most successful animation companies in the world. Jobs’ influence extended beyond technology, shaping the way people interact with media, communication, and design. His legacy as a visionary leader and innovator continues to impact industries around the globe.

Business and LeadershipTechnology and FutureInspiring ReadsCreativity and InnovationMedia and Pop Culture
Ray Dalio's Book Recommendations

Ray Dalio's Book Recommendations

Ray Dalio is the founder of Bridgewater Associates, one of the largest and most successful hedge funds in the world. He is also the author of the bestselling book Principles, where he outlines his philosophy on life, leadership, and investing. Ray is renowned for his unique approach to transparency, radical truth, and thoughtful disagreement within organizations. His insights into economics and investing have made him one of the most influential figures in the financial world. Dalio continues to be a thought leader in business, economics, and philanthropy.

Business and LeadershipSuccess Stories and Life LessonsInspiring Reads
Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations

Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations

Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.

Self-ImprovementProductivityBusiness and Leadership
Natalie Portman's Book Recommendations

Natalie Portman's Book Recommendations

Natalie Portman is an Academy Award-winning actress, director, and activist known for her diverse roles in films such as Black Swan, V for Vendetta, and Jackie. Beyond her successful acting career, Portman is a passionate advocate for women’s rights, animal rights, and environmental causes. She has a degree from Harvard University, where she studied psychology, and is known for her intellect as well as her artistic talent. Natalie has also directed and produced films and is a vocal supporter of the Time’s Up and #MeToo movements, advocating for gender equality in the entertainment industry.

Women Who LeadActivistMemoirs and BiographiesMovies Based on Books
Matt Mullenweg's Book Recommendations

Matt Mullenweg's Book Recommendations

Matt Mullenweg is an influential American entrepreneur and web developer, best known for co-founding WordPress, the open-source software that powers over 40% of the web. Born in 1984 in Houston, Texas, Mullenweg's work has revolutionized digital publishing and democratized web content creation. As the CEO of Automattic, the parent company of WordPress.com, he has expanded the platform's reach and capabilities, fostering a vibrant community of developers and users. Mullenweg is also an advocate for open-source software and has contributed significantly to its proliferation and adoption. His impact on digital literature and publishing is profound, enabling countless individuals and organizations to share their voices online.

Business and LeadershipTechnology and FutureInspiring ReadsCreativity and Innovation

Showing 8 of 16 related collections

"In the depths of despair, we often find the truest reflection of our desires and fears, revealing the intricate dance between sacrifice and salvation that defines the human experience."

Resurrection from the Underground

By René Girard

Frequently Asked Questions