​Ruhi Kumar

Existentialism and The Theatre of the absurd

 

Definition: A form of drama that emphasises the absurdity of human existence by employing disjointed, repetitious, and meaningless dialogue, purposeless and confusing situations, and 

plots that lack realistic or logical development. -The American Heritage Dictionary

 

-Abstract performance style

-Theatre of the Absurd rebelled against conventional theatre of the time just like practitioners such as Artaud had wanted. 

-Was absurd, illogical, plotless

-Publics initial response was rejection of this form of theatre as they could not comprehend what was going on. 

-The most famous and controversial absurdist play is by Sam Beckett titled 'Waiting for Godot

-Lots of experimentation with language and dialogue

 

Language in Theatre of the Absurd

 

-Absurdist drama uses conventionalised speech, clichés, slogans and technical jargon. By ridiculing and mocking conventionalised and stereotyped speech patterns, the Theatre of the Absurd tries to make people aware of the possibility of going beyond everyday speech conventions and communicating more authentically.

 

Notes from Kelsey's Presentation

-The existentialist play began during the German occupation of Paris

-The purpose was the effect the moral dilemma of the audience

-Performances were left up and open to interpretation

-It was all based upon the theory that "There is no meaning to life unless you create it yourself"

-Sartre wrote plays of physical torture

-Theatre of the absurd is surrealistic theatre 

-Began during decade of cold war

-Playwright called 'Absurdist'

-"In a Godless universe, Human existence has no meaning or purpose. 

-Lots of symbolism and props used

-No logical plot or characterisation

-Characters seem to lack motivation of enthusiasm when performing this is done to emphasise their purposelessness.