Meaning: Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice. It emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly in the works of philosophers such as Søren Kierkegaard, Friedrich Nietzsche, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Albert Camus. The quote "Existentialism is about being a saint without God; being your own hero, without all the sanction and support of religion or society" by Anita Brookner captures the essence of existentialist thought.

At its core, existentialism rejects the idea of predetermined human nature or essence. Instead, it asserts that individuals define themselves through their actions and choices. This philosophy places a strong emphasis on personal responsibility, authenticity, and the experience of anxiety and despair in the face of an indifferent or absurd world.

The quote suggests that existentialism encourages individuals to take on the role of a "saint" or a "hero" without relying on traditional sources of authority or external validation. It highlights the idea of self-reliance and self-determination, emphasizing the individual's ability to create meaning and purpose in life without the need for religious or societal approval.

Anita Brookner, a noted historian and novelist, offers a succinct and powerful articulation of existentialist principles in this quote. She points to the idea that individuals have the capacity to embody virtues traditionally associated with religious or societal figures, such as saintliness and heroism, without adhering to established religious or social norms.

In the context of existentialism, being a "saint without God" suggests the possibility of living a morally upright and virtuous life without relying on traditional religious doctrines or divine guidance. It reflects the existentialist belief in the autonomy and freedom of the individual to make ethical choices based on personal reflection and responsibility.

Similarly, the notion of being "your own hero, without all the sanction and support of religion or society" underscores the existentialist emphasis on self-reliance and self-creation. It implies that individuals have the capacity to define their own values, pursue their own goals, and find meaning in their lives without conforming to external expectations or seeking validation from religious or societal institutions.

Brookner's quote encapsulates the existentialist rejection of external authority and the call for individuals to embrace their own agency and autonomy. It aligns with existentialist themes of freedom, individualism, and the imperative to confront life's challenges with courage and authenticity.

In conclusion, Anita Brookner's quote succinctly encapsulates the core principles of existentialism, emphasizing the individual's capacity to embody moral and heroic qualities without relying on the support of religion or society. It serves as a poignant reminder of the existentialist commitment to individual freedom, responsibility, and the pursuit of authentic existence.