Write a short note on “Theatre of the Absurd.”
Waiting for Godot is a notable literary work by Samuel Beckett. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Waiting for Godot.
Answer
Write a short note on “Theatre of the Absurd.” [NU: 2016, 20] ★★★
Theatre of the Absurd/Absurd drama is a kind of drama that shows life as strange, meaningless, and without a clear purpose. It often has no normal story. Samuel Beckett’s (1906–89) “Waiting for Godot” (1952) is the best example of this style.
No Clear Plot: In “Waiting for Godot”, there is no real action. Vladimir and Estragon wait for Godot. He never comes. The same things happen in both acts. A Boy says,
“Mr. Godot told me to tell you he won’t come this evening but surely tomorrow.”
This lack of progress is a key part of Absurd drama. It shows that life may have no clear ending.
Strange and Repetitive Dialogue: The characters speak in strange ways. They repeat the same questions and answers. Sometimes they forget what they said before. Vladimir says,
“We always find something, eh Didi, to give us the impression we exist?”
This shows how language fails to give meaning. It is a special feature of Absurd plays.
Mix of Comedy and Tragedy: In an absurd drama, funny moments are mixed with deep sadness. In “Waiting for Godot”, Vladimir and Estragon joke, play games, and do silly acts. Estragon struggles with his boots, and Vladimir plays with his hat. But these moments are also sad because nothing changes. Pozzo and Lucky’s scenes are comic but also cruel. This mix makes the audience laugh and think at the same time.
Theatre of the Absurd shows the emptiness, confusion, and repetition of human life. Waiting for Godot is a perfect example. It has no clear plot, strange talk, and a mix of joy and sadness. This makes it deeply human and thought-provoking.