Abstract

The author reconstructs the connection between Europe and nihilism which, in his view, closely associates Hegel's and Nietzsche's reflection on Europe. Hegel's view of Europe as a form of spiritual life and Nietzsche's view of Europe as decadence appear to be two forms of the same concept of Europe: the first one builds its power on self-representation, while the second stresses the difference between Europe and Asia. While for Hegel Europe is a manifestation of liberty, for Nietzsche Europe is the land of nihilism. Within this concept of Europe Hegel and Nietzsche show the unsurmountable interweaving of Europe as a geographical site and Europe as a destiny.