-
Essay / The Human Condition: Existentialism in Literature...
Noam Chomsky firmly believes that novels, as well as other literary works, peer deeper into humanity than scientific theory ever will (Chomsky ). Literature being a means of introspection, we know that it is true; a solitary manuscript contains the lives of countless characters. Slowly unearthing the details and remaining helpless as a twist unfolds, the reader not only discovers the truths of those who cannot leave the paper prison, but also begins to formulate who they are and how the world has distorted the author. Existential writings are composed to inspire the audience to seek purpose. Soren Kierkegaard, father of existentialism, provides proof that establishing one's purpose in faith leads to a healthy and fulfilling life. Literary authors use the theory of existentialism to argue the necessity of religion based on the fragility of the human condition. Existentialism, reintroduced in the 20th century, has become increasingly secular. Mirroring the societal changes brought about by the two world wars, writers, as well as the general population, began to stop the search for faith and turn inward in search of practices leading to personal development. Existentialist and playwright Samuel Beckett openly ridicules believers in his play Waiting for Godot (Beckett). By ridiculing those who confided their worries to a higher power, Beckett sparked an existential revolution. The quintessence of modern existential theory is manifested in the characters who lead dull lives. Atheist existentialists believe that there is no all-powerful being that controls the universe, but that humanity lives in a state of chaos in which the individual gives purpose to his or her life. Existential atheists, however, believe that "...if God does not exist, middle of paper...alism." About Atheism 2013. November 15, 2013. Keller, Timothy. Every good company. New York: Penguin Books. 2012. 35-160. Keller, Timothy. The reason of God: belief and the era of skepticism. New York: The PenguinGroup (United States). 2009.112-273. Kierkegaard, Soren. Fear and trembling. London: everyone's library. 1994. 11-175. Neal, Timothy. “Christianity is not important, but Christ is.” Existential Christianity 2005. November 14, 2013. New international version. Np: Biblica and Bible Gateway. Internet. November 15, 2013. Scott, Marsha. “Christian roots of existentialism”. Slide Share April 20, 2009. November 14, 2013. Shakespeare, William and Jenkins, Harold. Hamlet. London: Methuen. 1984. 68-129.