The epic tapestry of “Conan the Barbarian,” the inherent dialectical tensions of Hegelian philosophy manifest themselves in a grand clash of opposing forces. Here, the primeval forces of nature and civilization engage in a perpetual struggle for dominance, reflecting the dialectical interplay between the thesis and antithesis. Conan, as the embodiment of raw vitality and untamed passion, confronts a world marked by the rigid structures of societal order, embodying the tension between individual freedom and the constraints imposed by collective norms. Through the narrative’s unfolding, we witness the synthesis emerge as Conan seeks to reconcile these opposing forces, forging a new understanding of the world that transcends the limitations of both chaos and order. As he quests for self-realization and existential fulfillment, “Conan the Barbarian” becomes a metaphorical journey that encapsulates Hegel’s dialectical progression, where the conflicts and resolutions of the protagonist reflect the profound unfolding of history and the human spirit’s inexorable march toward self-actualization.

We witness the perpetual clash of power, the relentless struggle between civilization and primal instincts, and the eternal quest for self-discovery. Power, a corrupting force, weaves its tendrils through individuals and societies. Thulsa Doom, consumed by an insatiable thirst for absolute power, wields manipulation and exploitation as tools of subjugation. Amidst this tumultuous narrative, Conan embarks on a voyage that confronts the dissonance between civilized society and the untamed wilderness, grappling with his own feral instincts to uncover his true essence. The revelation from this savagery-laden odyssey asserts that genuine power does not lie in dominion over others or exerting control, but rather in comprehending and embracing one’s unique individuality.

“Conan the Barbarian” vividly portrays the perpetual conflict and harmonious convergence of opposing forces, akin to the dialectical synthesis. The friction between civilization and primal instincts generates a thesis and antithesis that coexist and clash throughout the narrative fabric. Through Conan’s journey, the film moves towards synthesis—a resolute transcendence of the discord. Conan’s epiphany, the realization that power emanates from within oneself and that embracing individuality unfolds the petals of personal empowerment, epitomizes the amalgamation of these adversarial ideologies. The film suggests that authentic power blossoms from the fusion of seemingly contradictory facets, culminating in an elevated understanding and personal growth that transcends the fabric of existence itself.

Conan’s voyage is driven by his yearning to comprehend the true meaning of power and his place in the world. Initially embracing the philosophy of “The Riddle of Steel,” which values physical strength, skill, and personal agency, he also confronts the allure of Thulsa Doom’s philosophy of “Flesh,” emphasizing the surrender of individuality and the pursuit of power through dominance and control.

Conan’s synthesis occurs through a personal realization. He understands that true power resides not solely in physical strength or domination, but in embracing his own individuality and recognizing the value of human life. Rejecting the extremes represented by both philosophies, he finds a more balanced perspective. In a climactic moment, Conan destroys the symbol of Thulsa Doom’s power—the snake cult—and saves the enslaved people, symbolizing his rejection of Doom’s philosophy of control. However, he also recognizes that true power emanates from within, encompassing not just physical strength but also empathy, compassion, and the ability to forge genuine connections with others.

By reconciling these conflicting philosophies, Conan embraces a synthesis that acknowledges the importance of personal agency and strength while honoring the intrinsic worth of individual lives and the necessity of compassion. He discovers a new philosophy that respects the power of the individual and the interconnectedness of humanity.

Conan, as the central figure in “Conan the Barbarian” (1981) and shaped by Robert E. Howard’s writings, emerges as the embodiment of the “New-Man” and the warrior-philosopher, resonating with Nietzsche’s philosophy. His characterization exemplifies the fusion of physical prowess, intellectual acumen, and an unwavering will to power.

Conan personifies Nietzsche’s concept of the Übermensch, the “New-Man” who transcends conventional morality and embraces a self-affirming existence. Like the Übermensch, Conan rejects societal norms, embraces freedom, individualism, and self-actualization, and navigates a chaotic world with unwavering resolve—a reflection of Nietzsche’s eternal recurrence.

Moreover, Conan surpasses the traditional archetype of the warrior, going beyond brute strength to become a warrior-philosopher. He possesses not only physical prowess but also profound intellectual depth, exemplifying Nietzsche’s belief that true strength arises from the fusion of physicality and intellect. Conan’s adventures, crafted by Robert E. Howard, showcase his capacity for critical thinking, introspection, and a deep understanding of human nature. His wisdom, acquired through experiences, enables him to navigate treacherous landscapes of power, morality, and destiny.

Howard’s depiction of Conan highlights his intellectual curiosity and unending quest for knowledge. Conan seeks to understand the world and his place within it, moving beyond brute force. Engaging in introspection and contemplating the meaning of existence and the nature of power, he distinguishes himself from his contemporaries, aligning with Nietzsche’s vision of the warrior-philosopher who unites physical prowess with a profound understanding of the human condition.

In essence, Conan, portrayed in “Conan the Barbarian” (1981) and shaped by Robert E. Howard’s writings, emerges as the embodiment of the “New-Man” and the warrior-philosopher. He epitomizes Nietzsche’s ideals of self-overcoming, individualism, and an unwavering pursuit of power. Through Conan, we witness the fusion of physical strength and intellectual depth, a paradigmatic figure resonating with Nietzsche’s philosophy, and standing as an emblem of human potential.