Beckett as a social critic on the basis of your reading of “Waiting for Godot.”

Answer

Write a note on Beckett as a social critic on the basis of your reading of “Waiting for Godot.” [NU: 2016]

Samuel Beckett (1906–1989) uses “Waiting for Godot” (1952) to show the problems of modern life. He shows loneliness, hopelessness, and a lack of purpose. He also shows how people waste time, depend on others, and suffer in society. The play has few events. But it speaks deeply about human life. Beckett becomes a social critic through his characters and their actions.

Critic of Human Waiting and Inaction: Vladimir and Estragon wait for Godot every day. They do nothing useful. They keep saying,

“We’re waiting for Godot.”

They believe Godot will help them. But he never comes. Beckett shows how people wait for change instead of acting. In real life, many people wait for help, success, or luck. But they do not take steps themselves. Beckett criticizes this passive way of living.

Critic of Time Wasting: In the play, time passes slowly. The men pass the time with silly acts. Estragon struggles with his boots. Vladimir takes off and puts on his hat. They tell jokes. They play games. They talk about hanging themselves. Estragon says,

“Nothing to be done.”

Beckett shows that in society, people often waste time instead of using it well. He criticizes how humans “kill time” to avoid facing the truth about life’s emptiness.

Critic of Social Inequality: Pozzo and Lucky’s relationship shows power and control. Pozzo treats Lucky like a slave. Lucky carries his bags and obeys orders. Pozzo calls him names. Lucky obeys without protest. This shows how some people dominate others in society. The weak suffer while the powerful give orders. Beckett uses this to criticize class differences and unfair treatment.

Critic of Broken Communication: In the play, people talk a lot but do very little. Much of the dialogue is repeated. Questions are not answered. Lucky gives a long speech full of nonsense. Vladimir and Estragon forget what they said