Which of the following are features of the ‘Theatre of the Absurd’?

A. Emphasis on the central role of God in the universe.
B. Presentation of futile actions devoid of any goal.
C. Portrayal of situations that point to the meaningfulness of life.
D. Lacking in conflicts and dramatic tensions.
E. Presenting players in a stasis or drift without definite roles.

Which of the following are features of the ‘Theatre of the Absurd’?

Correct option is B

Explanation:

The Theatre of the Absurd, coined by Martin Esslin, is characterized by the following features:

Futility and meaninglessness: It portrays actions that are futile and lack definitive goals.

Absence of traditional structure: These plays often lack dramatic tensions or traditional conflicts.

Stasis of characters: Characters are depicted in a state of stasis or drift, often without definite roles or purposes.

Information Booster:

Key playwrights: Samuel Beckett, Eugène Ionesco, Jean Genet, and Harold Pinter.

Major works:

Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett.

The Bald Soprano by Eugène Ionesco.

​The Dumbwaiter by Harold Pinter.

The balcony by Jean Genet

Themes: Alienation, existential dread, the breakdown of communication, and cyclical or non-linear narratives.

Philosophy: Influenced by Albert Camus’ essay The Myth of Sisyphus, which discusses the absurdity of human existence.