Ernest Renan
Ernest Renan
================
Full Name and Common Aliases
---------------------------
Ernest Renan was born as Ernest-Désiré François Renan on December 28, 1823, in Tréguier, Brittany. He is commonly referred to by his initials, E.R.
Birth and Death Dates
----------------------
December 28, 1823 – October 2, 1892
Nationality and Profession(s)
-------------------------------
Renan was a French philosopher, historian, and scholar of the Semitic languages. He was born in Brittany but spent most of his life in Paris.
Early Life
-------------
Renan's early life was marked by both academic excellence and personal turmoil. As a young boy, he demonstrated exceptional linguistic abilities, mastering several languages, including Hebrew, Arabic, and Aramaic. His intellectual prowess earned him admission to the prestigious École Normale Supérieure in Paris at the age of 17.
However, his family's financial struggles forced him to abandon his studies for a brief period. This setback would later influence Renan's views on social inequality and the importance of education as a tool for upward mobility.
Major Accomplishments
------------------------
Renan's academic career was marked by numerous milestones:
He became a prominent figure in the field of Semitic philology, making significant contributions to our understanding of ancient languages.
His work on the life of Jesus Christ, "The Life of Jesus" (1863), challenged traditional Christian dogma and sparked intense debate among theologians.
Renan's advocacy for the scientific study of history and language helped establish the field of comparative mythology.Notable Works or Actions
---------------------------
Some of Renan's most notable works include:
"The Life of Jesus" (1863)
"The Apostles" (1866)
"The History of the People of Israel" (1887-1893)
In addition to his written works, Renan was an influential public intellectual. He delivered numerous lectures on various topics, from biblical studies to French history and culture.
Impact and Legacy
----------------------
Renan's impact on modern scholarship is undeniable:
His work on comparative mythology laid the groundwork for subsequent research in the field.
As a pioneer of Semitic philology, Renan expanded our understanding of ancient languages and cultures.
Through his advocacy for scientific historical inquiry, he helped establish history as a distinct discipline within academia.
Renan's legacy extends beyond his academic contributions. He played a significant role in shaping modern French culture, particularly through his writings on nationalism and the relationship between politics and history.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
-----------------------------------------
Renan's quotes and ideas are widely cited due to their relevance to contemporary debates:
His views on the importance of education for social mobility continue to inspire educators and policymakers.
His critiques of traditional Christian dogma remain influential among scholars of comparative mythology and biblical studies.
As a proponent of scientific historical inquiry, Renan's ideas about the relationship between history and politics continue to inform discussions around nationalism and global governance.
In conclusion, Ernest Renan was a groundbreaking scholar who left an indelible mark on modern academia. His work continues to inspire new generations of scholars, policymakers, and intellectuals.
Quotes by Ernest Renan
Man is not on this earth merely to be happy, or even to be simply honest. He is there to realize great things for humanity, to attain nobility and to surmount the vulgarity of almost everybody.
Jealousy is the foundation of equality, but not of liberty ; putting man constantly on his guard against the encroachments of his neighbors. It prevents affability between different classes. There is no society without affection, without tradition, without respect, without mutual amenity.
The oblivion, and I’ll say even the historical error, are a key factor in the creation of a nation, to the extent that the progress of historical studies is often a danger to nationality.
Good humor is a philosophic state of mind; it seems to say to nature that we take her no more seriously than she takes us.
To have common glories in the past, a common will in the present; to have done great things together; to wish to do greater; these are the essential conditions which make up a people.
Jesus, in some respects, was an anarchist, for he had no idea of civil government. That government seems to him purely and simply an abuse. A great social revolution, in which rank will be overturned, in which all authority in this world will be humiliated, was his dream .
The prayer of the agnostic: “O God, if there is a God, save my soul if I have a soul.”
Muslims are the first victims of Islam. Many times I have observed in my travels in the Orient that fanaticism comes from a small number of dangerous men who maintain the others in the practice of religion by terror. To liberate the Muslim from his religion is the best service one can render him.