Origin
Early 16th century; earliest use found in William Tyndale (1494–1536), translator of the Bible and religious reformer. From post-classical Latin philautia Greek self-love, self-conceit from ancient Greek loving oneself
Where
Born 1494 Gloucestershire, England
Died 6 October 1536, Duchy of Brabant, Seventeen Provinces
How and Why
The Greeks recognized two forms. In its negative form philautia is the selfishness that wants pleasure, fame, and wealth beyond what one needs. Narcissus, who falls in love with his own reflection, exemplifies this kind of self-love. In its positive form philautia refers to a proper pride or self-love.
