The Virtual Coffeehouse

I agree that Teufelsdrockh is somewhat pessimistic, however, I think his pessimism encases a deeper philosophical need to understand the true nature of "happiness" as an abstract concept. As Teufelsdrockh says: "Fancy that thou deservest to be hanged (as is most likely), thou wilt feel it happiness only to be shot..." (1021). This is a terribly unhappy way of summing up his conceptualization of happiness, however, there is a definite modicum of truth to it that I think many people can relate to, regardless of their disposition.