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  • Essay / Futility in Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett

    Beckett explores the theme of futility in an attempt to leave the audience with questions about the meaning of life. The techniques and ways in which he does it vary depending on the scene, but he relies heavily on the use of philosophical and emotional language and a shocking way of intellectually and emotionally engaging the audience. All of the characters Beckett presents in his play are used as literary constructs to create the tone and framework within which to develop and examine the theme of futility. The theme of futility is linked to the philosophy of nihilism and based on the belief that our universe is stochastic, and therefore structureless. If life has no coherent structure and meaning, it can ultimately be seen as futile. Beckett explores the theme of futility throughout the text in numerous ways. The theme of futility is immediately brought to the fore at the start of the scene through stage directions regarding Estragon's struggle with his boot. Sayings such as “he gives up, tries again…like before” immediately set the tone of the futility of his actions and the situation. This is also reflected in the room's decor and the apparent nudity of their surroundings. The theme of futility is also reflected in the cyclical nature of the dialogue in that nothing seems to change and everything is simply repeated, their conversation never reaching. a definitive conclusion, they are still “waiting for Godot” and yearning for answers. The concept of time is used with great success by Beckett to highlight and develop the theme of futility in “Waiting for Godot”. Time can be seen as a very fluid concept in the sense that the audience is never aware of how it is in middle of paper...... above. While many techniques are employed in order to develop and influence the audience's understanding and perception of themes, he considers that perhaps the most important tool that Beckett uses is motifs and certain characterizations. The play can be considered very minimalist and therefore the dynamic that exists between the characters is essential in demonstrating and exploring the theme of futility. Ultimately, the theme of futility and its effects on relationships and attitudes can be considered Beckett's most significant and widely explored theme. In conclusion, futility is heavily implied in the play and Beckett explores it through the methods I have explored in this essay. Works Cited Beckett, Samuel. Waiting for Godot. 3rd ed. Np: CPI Group, 2006. Printed. Flight. 1 by Samuel Beckett: The Complete Dramatic Works. 4 flights.