Existentialism

Definition

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that focuses on individual existence, freedom, and choice, emphasizing the inherent meaninglessness of life. It explores the struggle of individuals to find purpose and authenticity in an indifferent or chaotic universe, often confronting themes like anxiety, absurdity, and isolation. This perspective influenced various literary movements and styles, highlighting the complexities of human experience in the modern world.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Existentialism emerged in the 20th century as a reaction to the uncertainties brought about by World War I and II, reflecting deep questions about human existence and freedom.
2. Prominent existentialist writers, such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, emphasized the importance of personal choice and responsibility in shaping one’s identity.
3. The themes of existentialism can be seen in modernist literature, which often features fragmented narratives and a focus on subjective experience.
4. Existentialism profoundly influenced the development of absurdist drama in America, particularly through plays that illustrate the irrationality of life and human struggle.
5. Many works from World War II literature grapple with existential themes, reflecting the moral dilemmas faced by individuals during times of extreme crisis and uncertainty.

Review Questions

• How does existentialism shape the narrative style and character development in modernist literature?
  • Existentialism significantly influences modernist literature by encouraging authors to explore fragmented narratives and subjective experiences. Characters often face dilemmas that highlight their freedom to choose yet simultaneously confront their isolation in an indifferent universe. This narrative approach allows for a deeper exploration of individual consciousness and the complexities of human existence.
• In what ways do existentialist themes manifest in the works of Ernest Hemingway, particularly in his portrayal of characters facing moral ambiguity?
  • Ernest Hemingway’s works often embody existentialist themes through characters who confront moral ambiguity and the absurdity of life. His protagonists frequently wrestle with their inner turmoil while seeking authenticity in a chaotic world. This struggle for meaning amid uncertainty illustrates key existentialist ideas about personal responsibility and the quest for identity.
• Analyze how absurdist drama reflects existentialist principles and its relevance during World War II.
  • Absurdist drama mirrors existentialist principles by depicting characters caught in irrational situations, emphasizing the futility of human actions. During World War II, this genre became particularly relevant as it illustrated the chaos and meaninglessness experienced by individuals amidst global conflict. The portrayal of absurdity resonates with existentialist thoughts on alienation and the search for meaning in an unpredictable world.

Related terms

Absurdism: A philosophical perspective that suggests human beings exist in a purposeless, chaotic universe and must confront the absurdity of life, often leading to themes of existential crisis.

Authenticity: The quality of being true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character, which is a key concept in existentialism as individuals seek to create their own meaning in life.

Alienation:

A feeling of disconnection or estrangement from oneself or society, often explored in existentialist literature as characters grapple with their existence.