Discuss ‘Waiting for Godot’ as an absurd play [British Drama (2018-19) Assignment 2]

"Waiting for Godot" by Samuel Beckett is a play that is often categorized as an example of absurd theatre. The play presents an absurdist view of the human condition and the search for meaning in life. The play revolves around the two characters Vladimir and Estragon, who are waiting for the arrival of a character named Godot.

The play is considered absurd because it presents a situation where there is no logical explanation for the events taking place. The play lacks a clear narrative, and the characters appear to be lost in a world where they have no control. The characters' actions are often random, and their conversations are often nonsensical.

The play also presents a sense of existential dread, where the characters are forced to confront the meaninglessness of their existence. The characters are unable to leave the stage and are trapped in a cycle of waiting for Godot, who may or may not come. This reflects the human condition of being trapped in a cycle of waiting for something that may or may not arrive.

Furthermore, the play makes use of repetition, irony, and satire to highlight the absurdity of the characters' actions. For example, the characters frequently forget what they have said and repeat their actions, emphasizing their lack of control and purpose.

In conclusion, "Waiting for Godot" is an absurd play that presents a bleak view of the human condition. The play's lack of a clear narrative, nonsensical dialogue, and sense of existential dread highlight the absurdity of human existence. The play remains a significant example of the absurdist theatre genre and has influenced many subsequent works of theatre and literature.