Illusion of reality, existential dread and broken communication as the major themes depicted in Eugene Ionesco’s ‘the chairs’

Abstract

The Theatre Of The Absurd was one of the most influential theatres to exist in the post war age. It staged some of the most legendary plays to have existed in human history. It was believed to have originated as a result of the social scenario that emerged post second world war. Having traits or tragicomedy, inspired by surrealism and dadaism as well, these plays hold a significant in the dramatic history of world theatre. Among the famous playwrights associated with the Theatre Of The Absurd was Eugene Ionesco. This paper thereby focuses on one of his masterpieces, ‘The Chairs.’ Highlighting the major themes of existential dread, broken communication and illusion of reality, this paper attempts to analyze the playwright’s perspective towards the inclusion of these themes. It also provides a brief background of the evolution of the themes represented in the play in association with the absurdist theatre as a whole. Lastly, it presents the close parallels that exist between the reality and the absurdist play from the playwright’s point of view. The paper thereby attempts to present a clear understanding of the origin as well as the inculcation of the three major themes in the play.