Absurdist Drama Foundations delves into the Theatre of the Absurd, a dramatic movement born from post-World War II disillusionment. It explores how playwrights use illogical narratives and existentialist principles to portray the human condition in a world often perceived as meaningless. This book uniquely bridges philosophy and the performing arts, offering a comprehensive look at how playwrights like Samuel Beckett and Eugene Ionesco challenged traditional theatre structures to reflect the absurdity of existence. For example, plays often feature cyclical structures, mirroring the perceived lack of progress in life.
The book argues that while seemingly pessimistic, Absurdist drama provides catharsis by confronting the inherent meaninglessness of existence. It begins by laying the philosophical groundwork of existentialism and absurdism, then analyzes key plays, demonstrating how themes of alienation and communication breakdown are conveyed. The analysis includes case studies of plays like Waiting for Godot, Rhinoceros, and The Birthday Party.
Finally, the book concludes by examining the lasting impact and modern applications of absurdist principles, including their influence on modern media.
