Core Definitions and Origins
Existentialism emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and the search for personal meaning in an indifferent universe, as seen in Jean-Paul Sartre's works like 'No Exit,' where characters confront their essence through actions. Absurdism, developed by Albert Camus in 'The Myth of Sisyphus,' posits that human desire for meaning clashes irreconcilably with a silent, meaningless world, leading to rebellion against this absurdity rather than resolution.
Key Similarities and Differences
Both philosophies reject inherent cosmic meaning and focus on human response to life's void—existentialism through authentic self-creation and responsibility, while absurdism accepts the conflict without seeking false hope, highlighting joy in defiance. A key difference lies in optimism: existentialism empowers individuals to forge meaning, whereas absurdism views such efforts as futile, embracing the absurd as a path to liberation.
Practical Examples in Literature
In Samuel Beckett's 'Waiting for Godot,' absurdism manifests through endless, pointless waiting that mirrors life's absurdity, with characters finding fleeting camaraderie amid despair. Contrast this with Sartre's 'Nausea,' where protagonist Roquentin grapples with existential dread but emerges with a commitment to writing as an act of defining existence, illustrating existentialism's proactive stance.
Importance and Applications in Modern Literature
These philosophies influence contemporary literature by exploring alienation and resilience, as in Haruki Murakami's surreal narratives blending existential quests with absurd encounters. They encourage readers to confront personal absurdities, fostering deeper empathy and critical thinking about identity in an increasingly chaotic world.