Definition of hubris

The word "hubris" is derived from the ancient Greek language and originally meant "excessive pride or self-confidence." It emerged during the classical Greek era, around the 5th century BC, when it was a significant component of Greek tragedy. In Greek mythology and literature, hubris referred to an individual's excessive arrogance, typically towards the gods or other people, resulting in punishment or downfall. The concept was deeply ingrained in Greek culture, as the Greeks believed that overwhelming pride could lead to a person's downfall. The most well-known figure associated with hubris is the tragic hero, Oedipus, of Sophocles' play Oedipus Rex. Oedipus, filled with an arrogant disposition, transgressed against the gods by defying their commands, leading to his undoing. This play continues to have cultural and literary significance and helped to perpetuate the normative conception of hubris in modern-day discourse. The word "hubris" eventually made its way into Latin and from there, into several Western European languages. While its meaning changed somewhat in different contexts, it maintained its roots in the Greek concept of excessive pride or arrogance that led to repercussions. Today, "hubris" continues to be used in modern English, typically to refer to an individual or entity with excessive pride, particularly in contexts that involve mistakes or missteps, indicating the responsibility that often comes with being prideful.