Existentialism; The Stranger; No Exit
3-Minute Philosophy projects:
Existentialism is the branch of philosophy that deals with the meaning of life. Many authors of the 20th century were interested in answering this important question. We'll take a look at two of the most influential existential authors: Albert Camus and Jean Paul Sartre.
After our quiz on The Stranger we will have a discussion on the book. Please evaluate a neighbor as we discuss the book and its themes.
Then we'll take a look at Sartre's No Exit.
A version of No Exit (Harold Pinter)
Scenes from the play.
1.
2.
HOMEWORK: None. Please select your readings for the upcoming coffeehouse on April 3.
Existentialism is the branch of philosophy that deals with the meaning of life. Many authors of the 20th century were interested in answering this important question. We'll take a look at two of the most influential existential authors: Albert Camus and Jean Paul Sartre.
After our quiz on The Stranger we will have a discussion on the book. Please evaluate a neighbor as we discuss the book and its themes.
Then we'll take a look at Sartre's No Exit.
Jean-Paul Sartre (21 June 1905 – 15 April 1980) was a French existentialist philosopher, playwright, novelist, screenwriter, political activist, biographer, and literary critic.
He was one of the leading figures in 20th century French philosophy. In 1964 he was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature, but declined it stating: "It is not the same thing if I sign Jean-Paul Sartre or if I sign Jean-Paul Sartre, Nobel Prize winner. A writer must refuse to allow himself to be transformed into an institution, even if it takes place in the most honorable form."
He is one of last century's greatest existentialists. As you read, consider Sartre's answer. For modern humans, he may be right. What do you think?No Exit is Sartre's best known play. Only one act, the play epitomizes the value of creating characters in conflict. Each character: Garcin, Estelle, and Inez are perfectly balanced to challenge each other. This is effective and dramatic conflict. Each of your characters in a play should act as antagonist to another character. The best plays have characters who are at once dynamic and could also be considered protagonists and antagonists at different moments. No Exit is a great example of this theatrical tool in motion.
A version of No Exit (Harold Pinter)
Scenes from the play.
1.
2.
HOMEWORK: None. Please select your readings for the upcoming coffeehouse on April 3.
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