Existentialism

Definition

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice. It asserts that individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning and purpose in a world that may seem indifferent or even absurd. This perspective aligns with the themes of humanism, particularly in how it values personal experience and subjective interpretation, allowing for a rich exploration of the human condition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Existentialism emerged as a significant movement in the 20th century, influenced by earlier philosophers like Søren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche, and later gaining prominence through writers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.
2. In Chinese literature, existential themes reflect a search for personal identity and meaning amid cultural upheaval and social change, showcasing how individuals confront their circumstances.
3. Gao Xingjian’s works often depict characters wrestling with existential dilemmas, illustrating the struggle for authenticity and personal freedom in oppressive environments.
4. Mo Yan's narratives also touch on existential themes, presenting characters who face moral ambiguities and social constraints while navigating their unique paths in life.
5. Existentialism contributes to the 'Return of Humanism' in literature by emphasizing the importance of individual experience, thereby allowing writers to explore deeper human emotions and relationships.

Review Questions

• How does existentialism inform the portrayal of characters in Gao Xingjian's literary works?
  • Gao Xingjian’s literary works are heavily influenced by existentialist themes, portraying characters who confront profound dilemmas about identity and meaning. His characters often navigate a landscape filled with political oppression and social isolation, reflecting their internal struggles for authenticity and self-definition. This exploration highlights the existential belief that individuals must forge their own paths amid external chaos.
• Discuss the relationship between existentialism and the concept of humanism as seen in modern Chinese literature.
  • The relationship between existentialism and humanism in modern Chinese literature lies in their shared focus on individual experience and the search for meaning. Existentialist thought encourages writers to explore personal freedom and authenticity, aligning with the humanist emphasis on human dignity and potential. This fusion can be seen as authors grapple with societal pressures while seeking to articulate genuine human experiences through their narratives.
• Evaluate how existential themes manifest in Mo Yan's work and their significance to understanding human experiences within Chinese society.
  • In Mo Yan's work, existential themes manifest through characters who face complex moral choices within a rapidly changing society. His narratives often delve into issues of identity, alienation, and the quest for meaning amidst societal expectations. This exploration allows readers to gain insight into the struggles of individuals within the broader context of Chinese culture, showcasing how these existential dilemmas resonate with universal human experiences across different contexts.

Related terms

absurdism: A philosophical perspective that acknowledges the inherent conflict between human tendencies to seek inherent meaning in life and the inability to find any, leading to feelings of absurdity.

authenticity: The quality of being true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character, which is a central theme in existential thought, emphasizing the importance of living an authentic life.

alienation: A feeling of disconnection from oneself, society, or the world at large, often explored in existential literature as characters grapple with their existence and the search for meaning.