Vol. 5, Issue 1, Part C (2023)

Absurdist theatre, characterized by its exploration of the meaninglessness and disintegration of human existence, uses elements like symbolism and minimalism to convey its themes. The minimalist approach is reflected in the sparse set designs, repetitive dialogues, and simplistic characterizations, which mirror the futility of human endeavour and the disconnection between individuals in an absurd world. Symbolism in Absurdist theatre often utilizes objects, characters, and situations to represent deeper existential concepts, such as the alienation of individuals, the breakdown of communication, and the inevitable collapse of meaning. Works like Samuel Beckett’s waiting for Godot, Eugène Ionesco’s The Bald Soprano, and Harold Pinter’s The Birthday Party illustrate how minimalism and symbolism work together to emphasize the absurdity of life and the quest for purpose in an indifferent universe. By employing minimalist aesthetics and symbolic imagery, Absurdist playwrights challenge traditional theatrical conventions and invite audiences to confront the existential dilemmas of human existence.