The Theatre of the Absurd is a post-World War II literary movement, primarily in the 1950s and 1960s. It portrays the absurdity of human existence, often with illogical dialogue, strange scenarios, and themes of existentialism, absurdity, and meaninglessness. Famous playwrights include Samuel Beckett, Harold Pinter, and Eugène Ionesco.
A. The Birthday Party by Harold Pinter:
This is an Absurdist play. It revolves around themes of isolation, communication failure, and the chaotic nature of existence, which are central to the Theatre of the Absurd.
B. Endgame by Samuel Beckett:
Samuel Beckett is one of the most famous figures of the Theatre of the Absurd, and Endgame is one of his key plays in the genre. It explores themes of existential despair and the futility of life.
D. The Rhinoceros by Eugène Ionesco:
Ionesco is another major playwright in the Theatre of the Absurd. The Rhinoceros deals with the absurdity of conformity and the loss of individuality, which are quintessential Absurdist themes.
Why Not the Other Options?
C. Mrs. Warren’s Profession by George Bernard Shaw: This is not an Absurdist play. Shaw’s work belongs to the genre of social realism and explores issues related to capitalism, prostitution, and women’s rights, which don't align with the themes of the Theatre of the Absurd.
E. Riders to the Sea by John Millington Synge: This is a tragedy with elements of naturalism and is not part of the Theatre of the Absurd.
Year-wise PYQs
