Share The theatre of the absurd: Samuel Becket
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What is the Theatre of the Absurd?
A form of drama showing the meaninglessness of life, often using illogical dialogue and circular plots
Which critic coined the term 'Theatre of the Absurd'?
Martin Esslin
Which postwar philosophy is closely linked to Absurdism?
Existentialism
Who wrote *Waiting for Godot*?
Samuel Beckett
What country was Beckett from?
Ireland
What are common features of Absurdist plays?
Repetition, silence, nonsense dialogue, minimal action
What happens in *Waiting for Godot*?
Two men wait for someone who never arrives
Who are the main characters in *Waiting for Godot*?
Vladimir and Estragon
What is Godot a symbol of?
Possibly God, purpose, hope—or nothing at all
What type of comedy does Beckett use?
Slapstick and dark humour
What does the line 'Nothing to be done' suggest?
The futility and stasis of existence
What is the structure of *Waiting for Godot*?
Two acts that repeat without meaningful change
Who are Pozzo and Lucky?
A master and his abused servant
What happens at the end of each act?
A boy arrives saying Godot will come tomorrow
What theme is explored through waiting?
The absurdity and passivity of human life
What is the significance of language in the play?
Language breaks down and fails to communicate
