Defining Terms: Telos

    The definition of Telos found in the dictionary is “an ultimate end” or “a fundamental or terminal purpose.” The English word “Telos” derives from the ancient Greek term of the same pronunciation. In Greek texts the word is typically translated as “end”, “purpose”, “finally”, “fulfillment” or “outcome” but can also be translated as “revenue,” “tax,” or “duty.” Obviously word usage and meaning changes over time, so when determining the right definition of Telos we must take into account the cultural and historical context of which the word was used. In our modern literary culture the term is not widespread, so my use of the word in my own writings leans heavily on the historical context of which I see the word used in writings, namely the New Testament. While all of the above mentioned definitions are used in the New Testament, the word brings about an understanding of finality, or purpose that is bound with duty. I found it funny how it became the word translated for “tax.” It sort of gives you a new perspective on the whole “death and taxes” saying. Death and paying taxes seem to be a telos for humanity. Death being the ultimate doom of man (doom as in destiny), and tax as it is your duty to pay it. 

    Regardless of this more simplistic example, when I say “Telos” I am invoking its more philosophical meaning. The telos of a character is their purpose in the story in a meta sense, but also within the story itself. Describing a character's telos in the story is like describing their almost unavoidable purpose, duty, and doom. This is sometimes determined for them, or one that they choose. Or in more complicated situations, both. The claim that a sort of determinism and free will can coexist is another topic I will write about in the future