The Journey to Self-Awareness in Levinas' Philosophy and the Irish National Tale

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The essay explores the historical perception of the Other, often depicted negatively in ancient times as a monstrous figure, reflecting a divide between civilized and primitive cultures. It argues that genuine self-awareness arises from unprejudiced encounters with the Other, drawing on Kant’s philosophy of relational identity. The analysis focuses on works by Maria Edgeworth, Lady Morgan, and Emmanuel Levinas, emphasizing Levinas's belief that ethical commitment is rooted in the encounter with the Other, highlighting the transformative potential of these interactions.