From Morn to Midnight

Definition

From Morn to Midnight is a modernist play by Georg Kaiser that explores themes of existentialism and the human condition through the lens of a single day in the life of a bank clerk who embarks on a quest for meaning and fulfillment. The title itself suggests the span of time in which the protagonist experiences a dramatic transformation, highlighting the stark contrast between mundane existence and the yearning for deeper understanding. This play reflects key features of modernist drama, such as fragmented narrative, expressionistic elements, and an emphasis on individual experience amidst societal constraints.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The play's protagonist, a bank clerk, undergoes a profound internal struggle as he seeks meaning beyond his monotonous daily routine.
2. Kaiser's use of expressionistic techniques allows for the portrayal of the clerk's emotional turmoil and the chaos of urban life.
3. The setting shifts dramatically throughout the play, emphasizing the contrast between the rigid structure of society and the fluidity of individual desire.
4. The title symbolizes both the literal passage of time and the metaphorical journey from ignorance to enlightenment experienced by the protagonist.
5. Kaiser's work is significant within modernist drama as it challenges traditional narrative forms and focuses on psychological depth rather than linear storytelling.

Review Questions

• How does the theme of existentialism manifest in From Morn to Midnight through the protagonist's journey?
  • In From Morn to Midnight, existentialism is highlighted through the protagonist's quest for meaning in a life defined by monotony and societal expectations. The bank clerk's internal struggle represents a universal search for identity and purpose, culminating in moments of rebellion against his confined existence. His experiences throughout the day illustrate the conflict between individual desires and societal norms, emphasizing how modern life can alienate people from their true selves.
• Analyze how expressionistic techniques contribute to the overall impact of From Morn to Midnight.
  • Expressionistic techniques in From Morn to Midnight enhance the emotional intensity and psychological depth of the protagonist's experiences. By using exaggerated sets, distorted dialogue, and vivid imagery, Kaiser captures the chaos and turmoil within the clerk's mind as he navigates his existential crisis. These techniques allow audiences to engage with the character's emotions more directly, creating a visceral connection to his journey and emphasizing the broader themes of alienation in modern society.
• Evaluate how From Morn to Midnight reflects key characteristics of modernist drama and its cultural context during its time.
  • From Morn to Midnight embodies essential characteristics of modernist drama through its focus on individual consciousness and fragmented narratives. The play's exploration of existential themes speaks to a cultural context marked by rapid industrialization, war, and disillusionment with traditional values. Kaiser's innovative approach challenges conventional storytelling methods, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own existential dilemmas in a rapidly changing world. This critical examination of self amidst societal constraints positions it as a pivotal work within modernist literature.

Related terms

Expressionism:

An artistic movement that seeks to express emotional experience rather than physical reality, often using vivid imagery and exaggerated forms.

Alienation:

A feeling of disconnection or estrangement from oneself or society, often prevalent in modernist literature as characters grapple with their place in an increasingly industrialized world.

Stream of Consciousness: A narrative technique that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts and feelings in a character's mind, often presenting a chaotic and nonlinear perspective on events.