Rejection of Realism

Definition

Rejection of realism refers to the deliberate distancing from realistic representation in art and theater, focusing instead on abstract, exaggerated, or illogical elements. This approach challenges traditional narratives and realistic depictions, emphasizing the absurdity of human existence and the limitations of language and reason. By moving away from realism, this perspective allows for new forms of expression that highlight existential themes and the chaotic nature of life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Rejection of realism is a fundamental characteristic of absurdist drama, which seeks to portray the illogical aspects of life rather than adhering to conventional narrative structures.
2. The movement arose as a reaction against World War II's horrors, reflecting a sense of disillusionment with society's values and beliefs.
3. Absurdist playwrights often utilize surreal situations and characters to illustrate the struggle for meaning in a chaotic world.
4. This rejection leads to innovative stagecraft, using minimalistic sets and abstract visuals to enhance thematic content rather than realism.
5. The concept emphasizes language's limitations, showcasing how communication can fail or become absurd in conveying true human experience.

Review Questions

• How does the rejection of realism in absurdist drama influence character development and interactions within the play?
  • In absurdist drama, the rejection of realism creates characters that often defy conventional development and depth. They may represent abstract ideas or emotions rather than fully fleshed-out individuals, leading to interactions that are more symbolic than realistic. This approach emphasizes the disconnection between characters and their environment, showcasing their struggle with meaning and existence in a nonsensical world.
• In what ways does the rejection of realism reflect the philosophical underpinnings of existentialism within absurdist plays?
  • The rejection of realism directly aligns with existentialist philosophy by illustrating themes such as meaninglessness and the absurdity of human existence. Absurdist plays often depict characters grappling with their lack of purpose and the futility of their actions. This mirrors existentialist ideas that question traditional values and highlight individual freedom while confronting life's inherent chaos.
• Evaluate how the rejection of realism impacts audience perception and engagement with absurdist theater compared to traditional realistic theater.
  • The rejection of realism shifts audience perception by challenging them to engage with abstract concepts and unconventional narratives. Unlike traditional theater that provides familiar contexts and relatable characters, absurdist theater requires viewers to confront discomforting truths about existence. This engagement often leads to a deeper contemplation of existential themes, as audiences must interpret meaning from nonsensical dialogue and surreal situations, ultimately transforming their viewing experience into an introspective journey.

Related terms

Theater of the Absurd: A theatrical movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by plays that illustrate the futility and absurdity of human existence through illogical plots and nonsensical dialogue.

Existentialism: A philosophical movement that explores themes of meaninglessness, choice, and individuality, often influencing absurdist literature and drama.

Non-linear Narrative:

A storytelling technique that does not follow a chronological order, often reflecting the disjointed nature of human experience and thought.