Existentialist literature

Definition

Existentialist literature is a genre that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, often exploring the absurdity and meaninglessness of life. It focuses on the subjective experiences of characters, delving into themes such as alienation, despair, and the quest for authenticity in a chaotic world. This form of literature emerged prominently during the Modernist movement, with authors utilizing their works to reflect the existential dilemmas faced by individuals in an increasingly fragmented society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Existentialist literature is often associated with key authors like Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, and Fyodor Dostoevsky, who explored the complexities of human existence.
2. The narrative style of existentialist literature frequently employs stream-of-consciousness techniques to illustrate the internal struggles of characters.
3. A common motif in existentialist literature is the concept of the 'absurd hero,' who confronts the meaninglessness of existence yet chooses to create their own purpose.
4. Existentialist themes challenge traditional moral frameworks, encouraging readers to question established beliefs about good and evil.
5. The influence of existentialism extended beyond literature into art, philosophy, and psychology, shaping cultural discourse in the 20th century.

Review Questions

• How do key Modernist authors use existentialist themes to develop their characters?
  • Key Modernist authors utilize existentialist themes by presenting characters who grapple with questions of existence and personal freedom. For instance, in Sartre's 'Nausea', the protagonist faces a profound sense of alienation and absurdity as he navigates his identity. These characters often confront societal norms and must make choices that reflect their authentic selves, ultimately embodying the struggle for individuality amid chaos.
• Analyze how existentialist literature reflects the broader cultural context of Modernism.
  • Existentialist literature reflects the broader cultural context of Modernism by addressing the disillusionment and fragmentation experienced during this period. As traditional beliefs were challenged by rapid social change and conflict, authors captured the uncertainty of modern life through characters who confront their isolation and search for meaning. This alignment with Modernism illustrates a shared struggle against an incomprehensible world while promoting individualism and self-exploration.
• Evaluate the impact of existentialism on subsequent literary movements following Modernism.
  • The impact of existentialism on subsequent literary movements is significant, as it laid the groundwork for postmodern literature's exploration of identity and reality. Postmodern authors often draw from existential themes, further questioning notions of truth and authority while emphasizing fragmented narratives. This legacy can be seen in contemporary works that challenge readers to navigate complex moral landscapes, reflecting ongoing concerns about existence and individuality in an ever-changing world.

Related terms

Absurdism: A philosophical perspective that highlights the conflict between human tendencies to seek inherent meaning in life and the cold, indifferent universe that offers none.

Alienation: A condition in which individuals feel disconnected from themselves, others, or society as a whole, often explored in existentialist literature as a key theme.

Authenticity: The degree to which individuals live in accordance with their true selves and values, as opposed to societal expectations, often emphasized in existentialist works.