Meaning: The quote "A character is a completely fashioned will" by Novalis is a thought-provoking statement that delves into the concept of character and willpower. Novalis, whose real name was Georg Philipp Friedrich Freiherr von Hardenberg, was a German poet, philosopher, and writer of early German Romanticism. Born in 1772, Novalis' works often explored themes of love, nature, and the human spirit. His quote about character and will highlights the idea that an individual's character is not simply a product of circumstance or genetics, but rather a result of deliberate and conscious shaping of one's will.

When Novalis refers to a character as a "completely fashioned will," he is suggesting that an individual's character is not passive or predetermined, but rather an active and intentional creation. This notion challenges the idea that character is solely a product of external influences or inherent traits, emphasizing the role of personal agency and determination in shaping one's character. By framing character as a "fashioned will," Novalis implies that individuals have the power to shape and mold their own character through conscious choices, actions, and decisions.

The concept of willpower is central to Novalis' quote, as it is the driving force behind the formation of character. Willpower can be understood as the ability to control one's actions, make decisions, and pursue goals with determination and perseverance. Novalis suggests that character is not a passive result of external forces, but rather an active expression of one's willpower. This aligns with the Romantic emphasis on individuality, self-expression, and the power of the human spirit to shape one's own destiny.

Novalis' quote also raises questions about the nature of character itself. What comprises a person's character? Is it solely defined by their actions and choices, or does it also encompass their values, beliefs, and inner qualities? By describing character as a "completely fashioned will," Novalis implies that character is a dynamic and evolving aspect of the self, shaped by ongoing acts of will and intention.

In the context of Novalis' broader philosophical and literary work, this quote can be seen as reflective of the Romantic emphasis on individual autonomy and the creative power of the human mind and spirit. The Romantics rejected the idea of passive submission to external forces and instead celebrated the active, creative, and rebellious spirit of the individual. Novalis' quote aligns with this Romantic ethos by portraying character as a product of intentional, self-directed willpower.

Furthermore, Novalis' exploration of character and will in this quote resonates with broader philosophical inquiries into the nature of human agency and self-determination. The quote invites contemplation on the relationship between individual will, moral character, and the capacity for personal growth and change. It prompts us to consider the ways in which we actively shape our own character through the exercise of our willpower and the choices we make.

In conclusion, Novalis' quote "A character is a completely fashioned will" offers a compelling perspective on the nature of character and willpower. It challenges us to consider the active role we play in shaping our own character and underscores the significance of individual agency and intention in the formation of our moral and psychological selves. By framing character as a product of "fashioned will," Novalis highlights the dynamic and creative nature of human character, emphasizing the potential for personal growth, self-expression, and intentional self-fashioning.