Who is Godot? What does waiting for Godot imply for the characters on stage and for the audience?

Answer

Who or what is Godot in ‘Waiting for Godot? What purpose does he serve in Beckett’s play? [NU: 2016, 21] ★★★

“Waiting for Godot” (1952) by Samuel Beckett (1906–1989) is one of the most famous plays of the twentieth century. It is about two men, Vladimir and Estragon. They wait for someone called Godot. But Godot never comes. We never see him. We never know who he is. He could be a man, a savior, God, hope, or the meaning of life. His absence is the mystery that drives the whole play.

Godot is Never Seen: Vladimir and Estragon keep talking about Godot. They stand on a lonely road. A bare tree is beside them. They wait all day. They think he will arrive. But he never appears. Only a boy comes with a message. The boy says,

“Mr. Godot told me to tell you he won’t come this evening but surely tomorrow.”

This message comes twice. Godot remains unseen. We do not know if he is real. We do not know if he is a dream. This mystery makes the waiting more powerful.

Godot as a Symbol of Hope: Vladimir and Estragon believe Godot will change their lives. They think something important will happen when he comes. That is why they keep waiting. Even when he does not come, they return the next day. Vladimir says, 

“We’ll come back tomorrow.” 

This shows hope. In life, people often wait for something that may make life better. It can be success, love, money, or peace. Godot becomes a symbol of that hope.

Godot as God or Higher Power: Some readers think Godot means “God.” In the play, we only know that Godot has a white beard. This small clue makes him mysterious. It makes him seem old and wise, like a distant father or godlike figure.

Vladimir and Estragon wait for him like people wait for God’s help. But he never comes. This could mean that God’s presence is