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356 BCE
Alexander The Great
Considered as one of the greatest generals throughout history. Alexander’s exploits contributed to his identity. In accordance to legend, Alexander once visited Diogenes. In hopes of this encounter, Alexander wished to fulfill any of Diogenes requests. In their discussion Diogenes wished nothing but for Alexander to step out of his light. This event illustrated Alexander's character and identity. Despite his considerable wealth and power, he would have preferred to be as enlightened as Diogenes. -
119
Marcus Aurelius
Marcus Aurelius was a highly exceptional and contemplative leader. As a Roman emperor and philosopher who combined Stoic principles into daily life, his character exuded self-awareness and humility to demonstrate the struggles and hardship of life and how to overcome adversity. -
1159
King Baldwin IV
Also known as the Leper King, he was the king of Jerusalem until his death in 1185. Most notable for his leadership during the Battle of Montgisard, he led outnumbered forces to stand against a Muslim Army. Held in high esteem for his courage and resolve in the face of a debilitating illness, he is widely regarded as one of the most brilliant minds during the Crusades. King Baldwin, despite his physical limitations, managed to retain his position on the throne and become a successful ruler. -
Miyamoto Musashi
A Japanese swordsman, artist, writer, and philosopher that held an undefeated record of 62 duels. Throughout his lifetime, he would grapple with a multitude of identities and strive to ascertain his true self. After proving to himself his swordsmanship skills, later in his life he engaged in Buddhism and meditation. His writings offer genuine wisdom to life. This transition from physical prowess to spiritual enlightenment highlighted his identity as an individual striving for self-improvement. -
Don Quixote
Often argued as the first modern novel, the story follows a character in search of self-invention. The story is a testament to man’s search for meaning and how one must live life genuinely and passionately. Reflected often throughout one’s life, the narrative's recurrent depiction of the protagonist's resilience in the face of temporal constraints and the shaping of his character in accordance with his own ideals, despite external pressures, exemplifies the enduring quest for identity. -
An Essay Concerning Human Understanding
A discussion on identity, this work argues that the most profound form of knowledge is derived from experience rather than a second-hand acquisition. Proposed by John Locke, is grounded in the impact of continuous consciousness that is fluid – constantly changing. This results in how identity is not a solidified construct that is unwavering. While it may appear as a lack of accountability, how one can change from mistakes, it is an awareness to gain future insight and discover oneself. -
Wanderer above the Sea of Fog
This art symbolizes the universal search for one’s own identity. The portrayal of a man standing above the fog can be interpreted as an act of introspection, inviting an individual to consider their own identity and to reflect on their inner-self. It places emphasis on the role of total and pure emotion in the process of self-discovery, set against the backdrop of a vast fog. This dramatic uncertainty serves to highlight the difficulties encountered when attempting to ascertain one's identity. -
Friedrich Nietzsche
One of the most influential modern-day philosophers, Nietzsche was a German scholar who coined the concept of existentialism. Although commonly misinterpreted, Nietzsche’s concepts and beliefs did not want the individual to shy away from life. Rather, the notion of the concept of morality is contingent upon the individual’s perspective. His identity grasped at the link of a lack of identity to greatness. Noting that it hinders growth and self-discovery. -
Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein was a genius physicist known for his theory of relativity, making huge contributions to science and how we understand the universe. Albert Einstein’s identity really shines through his curiosity and creativity. He loved thinking creatively and questioning everything, which made him unique. Despite being a genius, he had a playful side and cared about social issues, showing he was more than a scientist. His humble personality made him so famous. -
Albert Camus
A French absurdist philosopher influenced by his teacher at the University of Algiers. Most famously known for his books, his reputation rests on his belief in the absurdity of life, devoting to the exploration of irrationality and meaninglessness. As a Nobel-prize winner, he was a creative thinker whose empathy and commitment to justice shaped both his ideas and actions. His character, marked by humility and a deep sense of responsibility, defined his approach to philosophy and social activism. -
Yukio Mashima
Regarded as one of Japan’s most controversial figures due to his political beliefs and attempts to start a coup d’etat, Mishima’s work examines identity in a lens of cultural heritage. Noting that identity is only fully realized in the spirits of ideals and aesthetics, it is marked by the ability to reconcile traditional beliefs and modernization of society. His eventual suicide by seppuku, upholds as a final act that holds a strong gesture towards his importance on tradition and identity. -
Yves Saint Laurent
A French fashion designer that created the luxury brand Yves Saint Laurent (YSL), the designer found solace in fashion since childhood. Laurent was mentored by the renowned Christian Dior, drafted into the French Army, and established his own brand. His legacy is regarded as one of the most influential fashion designers of the 20th century. He combined art with individualism, creating a clothing line that encapsulates the essence of identity and represents the sophistication of the soul. -
Yes to Life in Spite of Everything
A testament to finding hope in trying times, this novel signifies the difficulties of facing endured suffering yet finding purpose within an individual’s circumstance. The resonance to have responsibility in actively engaging with the world around provides key factors to living life to the fullest. This encapsulates the process of identifying the belief that the tragedies in life shape an individual's character, despite the difficulty. Therefore, it can be considered a positive outlook. -
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
This comedic adventure is one of identity and courage. The journey of Walter Mitty values the strength of imagination and how it enables an individual to inspire positive change. Though Mitty may fantasize about escaping his mundane life, his actions reveal an elaborate scheme that allows him to manifest his dreams. He is compelled to live up to the expectations he has set for himself, which leads him to adopt a new outlook on life based on his newly acquired capabilities. -
Paint it Black
The dark reflections of grief and loss, this song explores the themes of identity by the desire to escape a painful, melancholic outlook on life. The song’s emphasis to paint everything black is a reflection of the narrator’s identity. From an individual imbued with vitality, now transformed into one who is consumed by a pervasive sense of despair, longing for the world around them to succumb to the oppressive gloom of darkness. This song tries to position itself to rebuilding after tragedy. -
Paranoid by Black Sabbath
The song is about bridging between paranoia and depression. The inner conflict that may be experienced because of the emergence of mental anguish, isolation, and drug use, and the subsequent exploration of these issues. This struggle, defined as an individual's identity suggests a divide between the individual and the disconnect of self-perception. In the context of the song, amidst the mental turmoil, highlights the struggle of finding identity. -
Full Metal Jacket
This film explores the problematic nature of human desires. A close analysis of the film's characters reveal the duality of man and how it transcends innate desires. The film's overarching message is that individuals must determine their own moral compass, distinguishing between what is right and wrong in any given situation and aligning their actions with their principles. The lens of war provides insight into the challenges of navigating life in the absence of individualism and identity.