When does an epiphany occur in Roquentin in “Nausea”?

Answer

When does an epiphany occur in Roquentin in “Nausea”?

Epiphany is the sudden revelation or realization of naked truth. In Jean-Paul Sartre’s (1905-80) “Nausea” (1938), the protagonist, Antoine Roquentin, undergoes a profound existential crisis. Throughout the novel, Roquentin experiences moments of intense revelation, known as epiphanies. Each epiphany solves a layer of his existential anxiety. Key moments where Roquentin experiences these epiphanies are being presented.

The Encounter with the Root: Roquentin’s epiphany begins with a clearly ordinary observation—an encounter with a chestnut tree root. He reflects on its existence. He feels an unexplainable comfort: 

Existence … must invade you suddenly, master you, weigh heavily on your heart.

This moment marks the beginning of Roquentin’s existential crisis. He becomes acutely aware of the absurdity and meaninglessness of his own existence.

Epiphany in Writing Biography: Throughout the novel, Roquentin begins the project of writing about the Marquis de Rollebon. Now that his relationship with the Marquis de Rollebon is over, he sees it clearly for the first time.

I no longer existed in myself, but in him; I ate for him, breathed for him.

He rejects societal conventions and embraces his individuality. He desires to live authentically in accordance with his own values and experiences. Roquentin’s pursuit of authenticity is reflected in his desire to write a historical biography of a seemingly insignificant figure. He seeks to find meaning in the ordinary. Soon, he realizes his mistake and decides to write an autobiography.

Roquentin transcends his existential despair and embraces the freedom to create his own meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. Sartre’s “Nausea” invites readers to confront the absurdity of existence. He explores the depths of human consciousness in the face of existential anxiety.