National Schadenfreude Day

Cheerful person in a cozy winter sweater, surrounded by falling leaves and a pumpkin spice latte.. — National schadenfreude day illustration

Hey there! Are you ready to dive into the intriguing world of National Schadenfreude Day? Well, strap on your seatbelt because we're about to embark on a rollercoaster of emotions!

When is Schadenfreude Day?

It's national schadenfreude day on the 14th September.

The Origins of National Schadenfreude Day

Ever experienced that guilty pleasure of enjoying someone else's misfortune? You're not alone! National Schadenfreude Day celebrates our shared joy in the woes of others, and it's more popular than you might think. With 131 mentions online, it's safe to say that people love indulging in a little schadenfreude.

The roots of this unofficial holiday can be traced back to September 14, 2017, when it gained the most attention. Since then, every year on that fateful date, people gather to share stories and revel in the downfall of others. It's all in good fun, of course!

How to Celebrate National Schadenfreude Day

So, how does one properly celebrate a day dedicated to taking pleasure in other people's misfortune? Here are a few ideas:

Gather your loved ones and have a schadenfreude-themed potluck, featuring dishes that represent different embarrassing moments in history. Mashed potato mishaps, anyone?
Host a schadenfreude-themed movie night, where you watch classic comedies that revolve around people getting into hilarious predicaments. Extra points if you can't stop laughing!
Hold a schadenfreude-inspired sports trivia night, where you test your knowledge of epic fails and embarrassing moments in sporting history. Who can forget that time when a footballer scored an own goal in the World Cup final? Priceless!

Did You Know?

Did you know that schadenfreude is not only limited to humans? Even animals can experience a tinge of pleasure when seeing others' misfortune. So next time you see a cat knock over a glass of water, take comfort in knowing that even our furry friends understand the joy of schadenfreude.

History behind the term 'Schadenfreude'

1834

The Introduction

The term 'schadenfreude' was first introduced into the English language in 1834. It comes from the German words 'schaden,' meaning harm or damage, and 'freude,' meaning joy. In simple terms, schadenfreude refers to the pleasure or satisfaction one derives from the misfortune or suffering of others. Despite being a common human emotion, there wasn't a specific term for it until the 19th century.

1895

Popularization in Psychology

In the late 19th century, the term schadenfreude gained attention within the field of psychology. Sigmund Freud, the renowned psychoanalyst, discussed the concept extensively in his writings, identifying it as a component of human nature. The acknowledgment of schadenfreude in psychology helped to solidify its place in the cultural lexicon.

1991

Entry into English Dictionaries

After being in use for over a century, the term 'schadenfreude' was officially recognized and entered the English dictionaries in 1991. As English-speaking societies became increasingly familiar with the concept through literature, psychology, and everyday experiences, it was deemed necessary to include the word in standard dictionaries.

2003

Popularity in Media and Entertainment

In the early 2000s, schadenfreude experienced a surge in popularity, largely due to the rise of digital media and online culture. The term gained traction in comedic contexts, with satirical shows like 'The Daily Show' and 'The Colbert Report' frequently employing schadenfreude as a humorous device. Memes and internet culture further contributed to the widespread recognition and usage of the term.

Present

Cultural Acceptance and Common Usage

Today, schadenfreude has become a well-known and accepted term in English-speaking countries. It is often used as a descriptive term for a complex emotional experience and has found its place in various fields, ranging from psychology and philosophy to literature and popular culture. The fascination with schadenfreude persists, serving as a testament to the complexities of human nature and our inclination to find amusement in the misfortune of others.