BOOK BRIEF

The Theatre of the Absurd

Martin Esslin
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The Theatre of the Absurd

Nonfiction | Play | Adult | Published in 2001

Book Brief

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Martin Esslin

The Theatre of the Absurd

Nonfiction | Play | Adult | Published in 2001
Book Details
Pages

480

Format

Play • Nonfiction

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Theatre of the Absurd, Martin Esslin explores a dramatic movement that emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, emphasizing irrationality and existential themes. Individuals in these works confront a world devoid of meaning, often depicted through unconventional narratives and dialogues. Esslin analyzes playwrights like Samuel Beckett and Eugène Ionesco, highlighting their impact on modern theater.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Challenging

Dark

Informative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

1,069 ratings

81%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

The Theatre of the Absurd by Martin Esslin is hailed for its insightful analysis of post-war avant-garde dramas. It effectively contextualizes works by playwrights like Beckett and Ionesco, though some critique it for dense language and lack of accessibility to general readers. Overall, it remains a seminal text in understanding absurdist theatre.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Theatre of the Absurd?

A reader fascinated by avant-garde drama and existential philosophy, akin to fans of Camus' The Myth of Sisyphus, would enjoy Martin Esslin's The Theatre of the Absurd. This work appeals to those intrigued by human existence's irrationality and enjoys analyzing post-war playlike Beckett’s Waiting for Godot.

4.4

1,069 ratings

81%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

480

Format

Play • Nonfiction

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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