Acedia

High school (ages 12+)
Philosophy & Big Questions

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/acedia

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the greek etymology?Derived from ἀκηδία (akēdía), meaning 'lack of care' or 'negligence'
2. What is the monastic designation?Referred to as the 'noonday demon' in early Christian monastic traditions
3. Why do monks call it the "noonday demon"?Because when monks felt acedia, they felt a strong weariness that made it hard to pray and do their work, like a demon that visits at noon.
4. How is acedia different from just being tired?Acedia is more than ordinary tiredness; it is a deep boredom and lack of interest in things that usually bring joy, and it can make people feel empty inside.

Listlessness: A state of physical or mental weariness, lack of energy, and indifference to surroundings.
Existentialism: A philosophical movement emphasizing individual existence, freedom, and choice, often grappling with meaninglessness.
Anhedonia: The inability to experience pleasure from activities that are normally found enjoyable.