Day: October 28, 2023

Introduction: Existentialism in Literature

Existentialism in literature is a compelling and influential philosophical and literary movement that emerged in the 20th century, predominantly in Europe. It focuses on the individual’s experience of existence and grapples with the profound questions of freedom, choice, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent or absurd world. Rooted in the works of philosophers like Søren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche, existentialism gained prominence through the writings of Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, and Simone de Beauvoir. These literary figures explored the themes of existential anxiety, authenticity, and the human struggle to define one’s own existence, making existentialism a foundational perspective in the interpretation and analysis of literature, particularly in examining the complexities of the human condition.

Criticism Against Existentialism in Literature

1. Obscurity and Complexity: Critics argue that existentialist literature can be overly complex and obscure, making it difficult for readers to access and appreciate. The abstract philosophical concepts and dense prose used by existentialist writers can alienate some readers.
2. Pessimism and Nihilism: Existentialist literature is often criticized for its perceived pessimism and nihilism. Some argue that it portrays a bleak view of human existence, emphasizing the absurdity of life and the lack of inherent meaning, which can be disheartening for readers.
3. Individualism at the Expense of Society: Critics contend that existentialism can prioritize individualism to the detriment of addressing societal issues. The intense focus on personal existential crises may lead to a lack of engagement with broader social, political, and ethical concerns.
4. Lack of Diversity: Existentialism has been criticized for its Eurocentric origins and its limited representation of diverse voices and experiences. Critics argue that it may not adequately address the existential concerns of individuals from different cultural backgrounds.
5. Overemphasis on Alienation: Some critics suggest that existentialist literature tends to overemphasize themes of alienation and isolation, which may not fully represent the complexity of human relationships and social bonds.
6. Challenging Language and Accessibility: Existentialist texts are often written in a challenging and philosophical language, which can alienate readers who are not well-versed in philosophical discourse, making the literature less accessible to a broader audience.
7. Lack of Resolution: Existentialist works often leave readers with open-ended conclusions and unresolved questions, which can be frustrating for those seeking more traditional narrative closure.

While these criticisms are valid concerns, it is important to note that existentialist literature has also garnered significant praise for its depth, introspection, and exploration of fundamental questions about human existence. Ultimately, the value of existentialist literature is a matter of personal interpretation and perspective.

Existentialism in Literature: Critiques of Selected Works

Work	Critique
The Stranger by Albert Camus	Meursault, the novel’s protagonist, is often criticized for his emotional detachment and lack of moral compass, making it challenging for readers to connect with his existential journey and moral ambiguity.
Nausea by Jean-Paul Sartre	Roquentin, the main character, engages in obsessive introspection, which some readers find excessive and alienating. The seemingly aimless plot, although intended to reflect existential angst, can lead to a sense of frustration in some readers.
No Exit by Jean-Paul Sartre	The play’s characters, Inez, Garcin, and Estelle, engage in overtly philosophical dialogue, which some critics find didactic and contrived, potentially affecting the authenticity of their interactions in the play.
The Plague by Albert Camus	Some readers and critics find the character development in the novel to be lacking, with characters like Dr. Rieux and Tarrou remaining thinly portrayed. The narrative’s focus on the plague’s progression and the philosophical questions it raises may overshadow the depth of individual character exploration.
The Fall by Albert Camus	The reliance on the single narrator, Jean-Baptiste Clamence, and the confessional style of the novel can limit the scope and engagement for some readers, as the narrative predominantly reflects one character’s perspective.
The Waste Land by T.S. Eliot	While celebrated for its modernist approach, “The Waste Land” has been criticized for its fragmented narrative structure, extensive allusions, and elusive symbolism, which can pose challenges for readers in deciphering its meaning and coherence.
Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett	Although highly regarded, the play has been critiqued for its repetitive and seemingly meaningless dialogue, with characters Vladimir and Estragon often waiting for a character named Godot, leading to questions about the play’s ultimate message and the engagement of its audience.

Existentialism in Literature: Suggested Readings

Books:

1. Camus, Albert. The Myth of Sisyphus. Vintage, 1991.
2. De Beauvoir, Simone. The Ethics of Ambiguity. Citadel Press, 1998.
3. Kierkegaard, Søren. Fear and Trembling. Penguin Classics, 1986.
4. Nietzsche, Friedrich. Thus Spoke Zarathustra. Penguin Classics, 1969.
5. Sartre, Jean-Paul. Being and Nothingness. Washington Square Press, 1993.
6. Sartre, Jean-Paul. Existentialism is a Humanism. Yale University Press, 2007.
7. Sartre, Jean-Paul. Nausea. New Directions, 2007.
8. Camus, Albert. The Rebel. Vintage, 1991.

Articles and Essays:

• Flynn, Thomas R. “Existentialism.” The Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, Stanford University, 2018, plato.stanford.edu/archives/fall2018/entries/existentialism/.
• Macquarrie, John. “Existentialism.” The Blackwell Companion to Modern Theology, edited by Gareth Jones, Blackwell Publishers, 2004, pp. 322-335.
• Solomon, Robert C. “Existentialism.” The Oxford Companion to Philosophy, Oxford University Press, 2005, pp. 276-281.

Etymology of Existentialism

The term “existentialism” is derived from the Latin word “existere,” which means “to exist.” It became popular in the mid-20th century to describe a philosophical movement that focuses on the individual’s existence and the associated themes of freedom, choice, and responsibility.

Meanings of Existentialism

Aspect	Meaning
Literal Meaning in Literature	Works exploring existentialist themes, with characters questioning existence, freedom, and meaning.
Literary Movement	A literary movement where authors incorporate existentialist ideas, focusing on individual experience, choice, and the human condition.
Theoretical Interpretation	The use of existentialist philosophy to analyze literature, examining characters’ choices and the absence of inherent meaning in narratives.
Exploration of Human Condition	Depiction of characters confronting life’s absurdity, grappling with existence, and making choices that shape their destinies.
Philosophical Existentialism Influence	Literature influenced by philosophical existentialism, exploring concepts like radical freedom and authenticity.
Representation of Alienation	Frequent portrayal of characters feeling alienated, struggling to find meaning in an apparently indifferent or absurd world.
Thematic Exploration	Encompassing diverse themes, including life’s meaning, authenticity of choices, consequences of existential despair, and individual responsibility.

Definition of Existentialism as a Theoretical Term

Existentialism, as a theoretical term, is a philosophical and literary movement that emphasizes the significance of individual existence and freedom. It contends that human beings are responsible for creating their own meaning in a seemingly indifferent or absurd universe, often by making choices that define their identity and values.

Existentialism rejects absolute or predetermined truths, highlighting the subjective and often anguished nature of human experience.

Existentialism: Theorists, Works, and Arguments

Existentialism is a philosophical and literary movement associated with several notable theorists, works, and key arguments:

Theorists:

1. Jean-Paul Sartre: A prominent existentialist philosopher, Sartre’s major works include Being and Nothingness. He argued that existence precedes essence, emphasizing human freedom and the concept of “bad faith.”
2. Albert Camus: Known for works like The Stranger and The Myth of Sisyphus Camus explored the absurdity of life and the search for meaning in an indifferent world.
3. Søren Kierkegaard: Often considered a precursor to existentialism, Kierkegaard focused on the individual’s subjective experience and the leap of faith in his works, such as Fear and Trembling.
4. Friedrich Nietzsche: His philosophical ideas on the will to power, the eternal recurrence, and the Übermensch (Overman) have had a significant influence on existentialist thought.

Key Works:

1. Being and Nothingness by Jean-Paul Sartre: This foundational work explores existentialism’s core ideas, including the concepts of consciousness, freedom, and existential angst.
2. The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus: Camus’s essay presents the idea of the absurd and how individuals can find meaning in a world devoid of inherent purpose.
3. Fear and Trembling by Søren Kierkegaard: Kierkegaard’s exploration of faith, ethics, and the individual’s relationship with the divine contributes to existentialist themes.

Key Arguments:

1. Existence Precedes Essence: Existentialism asserts that individuals exist before they define their essence. This means that people are responsible for creating their own values and meaning in life.
2. Freedom and Responsibility: Existentialists stress human freedom and the responsibility that comes with it. Choices are seen as crucial in shaping one’s identity and determining the course of one’s life.
3. The Absurd: Existentialism often grapples with the idea that life lacks inherent meaning or purpose, leading to a sense of absurdity. The search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world is a central theme.
4. Authenticity: Authenticity involves living in accordance with one’s own values and choices, rather than conforming to societal expectations or “bad faith,” which is a form of self-deception.
5. Angst (Existential Anxiety): The existentialist concept of “angst” or existential anxiety reflects the inherent anxiety and dread individuals face when confronted with their freedom and the responsibility to make choices in the absence of absolute values or guidelines.

Principals of Existentialism

Principal	Explanation
Existence Precedes Essence	Existentialism asserts that individuals exist before they define their essence, meaning that they are not born with predetermined meanings or purposes; they must create their own through their choices and actions.
Freedom and Responsibility	Existentialists emphasize the profound freedom of individuals to make choices and shape their lives, while recognizing the weight of responsibility that comes with this freedom, as individuals are accountable for their decisions and their consequences.
The Absurd	Existentialism contends that life lacks inherent meaning or purpose, leading to a sense of absurdity. Despite this, individuals are challenged to find their own meaning and significance in an otherwise indifferent or irrational world.
Angst (Existential Anxiety)	Existential anxiety, often referred to as “angst,” is a fundamental aspect of existentialism. It arises from the realization of one’s freedom and responsibility, causing feelings of anxiety and dread when confronted with the uncertainty and ambiguity of existence.
Authenticity	Authenticity is the concept of living in accordance with one’s own values, choices, and beliefs. Existentialists encourage individuals to be true to themselves and resist conformity to societal norms or “bad faith,” a state of self-deception where one avoids their responsibility.
Individuality	Existentialism celebrates the uniqueness and individuality of each person, emphasizing that individuals have their own experiences, perspectives, and ways of being, which should be respected and valued.
Dread of Death	Existentialists often explore the fear of death as a fundamental human concern. The awareness of mortality can intensify existential anxiety and prompt reflection on the meaning of life.
Subjectivity	Existentialism places a strong emphasis on subjective experience, asserting that truth and meaning are ultimately subjective and that individuals must confront and grapple with their own existence.
Rejection of Totalizing Systems	Existentialism rejects the idea of totalizing systems or ideologies that claim to provide absolute truths or moral guidance. Existentialists are skeptical of dogma and encourage critical thinking and questioning.
Emphasis on the Individual’s Choice	The choices individuals make in the face of their existential situation are of paramount importance in existentialism. These choices reflect their values, define their existence, and contribute to the meaning they create in their lives.

Major Works in Existentialism and Arguments

1. Being and Nothingness by Jean-Paul Sartre: Sartre’s work presents the concept that “existence precedes essence,” emphasizing that individuals exist before they define their essence. He argues that humans are condemned to be free, meaning they bear the burden of absolute freedom and responsibility for their choices.
2. The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus: Camus explores the idea of the absurd, suggesting that life lacks inherent meaning or purpose. He argues that despite the inherent absurdity of existence, individuals should embrace their freedom and find their own meaning, symbolized by the myth of Sisyphus.
3. Fear and Trembling by Søren Kierkegaard: Kierkegaard delves into the notion of faith, ethics, and the individual’s relationship with the divine. He presents the concept of the “knight of faith” who makes a leap of faith beyond reason, transcending the ethical and the universal.
4. Thus Spoke Zarathustra by Friedrich Nietzsche: Nietzsche introduces the concept of the Übermensch (Overman or Superman), an individual who creates their own values and transcends conventional morality. He critiques traditional values and morality, advocating for a reevaluation of moral concepts.
5. Nausea by Jean-Paul Sartre: Sartre’s novel embodies the sense of existential nausea, portraying the protagonist’s experience of the absurdity and contingency of existence. It illustrates the existentialist idea that life’s inherent lack of meaning can induce a feeling of nausea or revulsion.
6. Existentialism is a Humanism by Jean-Paul Sartre: In this essay, Sartre defends existentialism as a human-centered philosophy. He argues that existentialism is a philosophy of freedom and choice, emphasizing that individuals must take responsibility for their actions and decisions.
7. The Ethics of Ambiguity by Simone de Beauvoir: De Beauvoir explores the existentialist ethics of ambiguity, suggesting that individuals must embrace their freedom while acknowledging their interdependence with others. She argues for ethical authenticity and rejects the objectification of others.
   1. The Rebel by Albert Camus: Camus delves into the concept of rebellion against oppressive systems and the moral ambiguity of revolutionary actions. He argues for a “metaphysical rebellion” that opposes both the absurdity of existence and unjust authority.

These major works and associated arguments represent the core ideas of existentialism, including the themes of existence, freedom, responsibility, the absurd, and the search for meaning in an often indifferent or irrational world.

Suggested Readings

1. Camus, Albert. The Myth of Sisyphus. Vintage, 1991.
2. De Beauvoir, Simone. The Ethics of Ambiguity. Citadel Press, 1998.
3. Kierkegaard, Søren. Fear and Trembling. Penguin Classics, 1986.
4. Nietzsche, Friedrich. Thus Spoke Zarathustra. Penguin Classics, 1969.
5. Sartre, Jean-Paul. Being and Nothingness. Washington Square Press, 1993.
6. Sartre, Jean-Paul. Existentialism is a Humanism. Yale University Press, 2007.
7. Sartre, Jean-Paul. Nausea. New Directions, 2007.
8. Camus, Albert. The Rebel. Vintage, 1991.