While the word itself is of Germanic origin, the concept of angst has been explored in various philosophical and literary contexts, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Here's a breakdown of its linguistic journey:
* 18th Century: The word "Angst" was initially used in German literature to describe a feeling of unease or fear.
* 19th Century: The concept of angst gained prominence in the works of philosophers like Søren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche. They explored the existential angst of facing the meaninglessness of existence and the limitations of human understanding.
* 20th Century: The word "angst" became more widely recognized in English through the works of Sigmund Freud, who analyzed the psychological roots of anxiety.
It's important to note:
* While "angst" is commonly used in English to describe a feeling of anxiety, it carries a deeper philosophical meaning than simply being nervous or worried.
* It often suggests a deeper existential dread or a sense of being overwhelmed by the complexities of life.
So, while the word itself has Germanic origins, the concept of angst has been shaped and reinterpreted through various cultural and intellectual movements.