Existentialism is one of the most powerful and influential philosophical movements of modern times. It deals with the basic questions of human life: Who am I? Why am I here? Does life have any meaning? Existentialism is not just a theory to be studied in books; it is a way of looking at life.
The word “existentialism” comes from a Latin word meaning “to stand out” or “to emerge.” In simple terms, existentialism focuses on the individual human being who stands alone in a vast and often confusing universe. It teaches that human beings must make their own choices and create their own meaning in a world that does not provide clear guidance.
Definition of Existentialism
Existentialism is a philosophical approach that believes human beings live in an irrational and uncertain universe. There is no fixed rulebook given by the universe about how to live. Therefore, each person must choose their own path. These choices define who they are.
A key idea often connected with existentialism is the statement by Jean-Paul Sartre: “Existence precedes essence.” This means that a person first exists, and only later defines himself or herself through actions. We are not born with a fixed purpose. Our identity is shaped by what we do.
Existentialism rejects the idea that religion, society, or tradition alone can define human life. Instead, it emphasizes:
- Individual freedom
- Personal responsibility
- Authentic living
- Awareness of death
- Loneliness and isolation
Because no one else can make our decisions for us, we are fully responsible for our actions. This freedom is both powerful and frightening.
Historical Development of Existentialism
Although existentialism became very popular in the twentieth century, its roots go back to the nineteenth century.
Søren Kierkegaard: The First Existentialist
The Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard is usually called the first existentialist. He believed that truth is personal and subjective. According to him, individuals must live “authentically,” with passion and sincerity. He argued that meaning in life cannot simply come from society or organized religion; it must come from personal commitment and inner choice.
Kierkegaard emphasized individual responsibility. For him, life is not a theoretical problem but a lived experience.
Friedrich Nietzsche: The Crisis of Faith
In the 1880s, Friedrich Nietzsche declared that “God is dead.” By this, he did not mean that God literally died. He meant that modern society had lost its faith in traditional religious values. This created a crisis. If God is no longer the source of morality, then human beings must create their own values.
This idea deeply influenced existentialist thinking. The loss of faith led to feelings of loneliness and anxiety, which became important themes in literature.
Existentialism During World War II
Existentialism reached its peak in France during World War II. When Nazi forces occupied France, many writers and philosophers gathered in cafés in Paris to discuss ideas about freedom and resistance.
The political situation was oppressive. People were forced to choose: obey the regime or resist it. This real-life situation made existentialist ideas about freedom and responsibility more meaningful.
Jean-Paul Sartre and the Popularization of Existentialism
Jean-Paul Sartre became the most famous spokesman of existentialism after World War II. He strongly believed that “existence precedes essence.” According to him, we are not defined by social roles such as teacher, soldier, or mother. Instead, we define ourselves by the choices we make.
Sartre argued that humans are “condemned to be free.” We cannot escape responsibility. Even refusing to choose is itself a choice.
Existentialism in Literature
Existentialism found powerful expression in literature. Many novels and plays show characters who struggle with freedom, isolation, and the meaning of life.
Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut
Slaughterhouse-Five
This novel combines science fiction and anti-war themes. The protagonist, Billy Pilgrim, becomes “unstuck in time.” He experiences events from different periods of his life in a random order.
The novel suggests that life may not have a clear explanation. The famous line, “There is no why,” reflects existential thought. Human beings search for meaning, but the universe remains silent.
Billy tries to understand his suffering during war, but he finds no rational answer. This reflects the existential idea that life does not always provide reasons for pain.
The Stranger by Albert Camus
The Stranger
Although Camus did not like being called an existentialist, his novel is closely linked with the movement. The story follows Meursault, a man who seems emotionally detached from society.
After committing a murder, Meursault does not behave as society expects. He does not show traditional signs of guilt or sorrow. In prison, he realizes the “benign indifference of the universe.” This means that the universe does not care about human hopes or fears.
Camus believed in the idea of the “absurd”—the conflict between human desire for meaning and the silent universe. His characters accept this absurdity and continue to live with awareness.
The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka
The Metamorphosis
This famous novella tells the story of Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one morning transformed into a giant insect. Kafka never explains why this transformation happens.
Gregor tries to behave rationally in a completely irrational situation. He worries about going to work and supporting his family, even though he is now a bug. His suffering and isolation reflect existential themes.
The line, “I cannot make you understand,” shows the loneliness of the individual. No one truly understands another person’s inner world.
Earlier Roots: Dostoevsky and Others
Fyodor Dostoevsky
Dostoevsky’s novels, written before the formal development of existentialism, contain strong existential elements. His characters often struggle with guilt, freedom, crime, and moral responsibility.
Dostoevsky himself experienced great suffering. He was once sentenced to death for political activities, but the sentence was changed at the last moment. This experience deeply affected him. His works show that human life is full of contradiction and inner conflict.
Twentieth-century writers such as Ernest Hemingway, James Baldwin, and Nathaniel West were also influenced by existentialist ideas. Themes of isolation, courage, and moral choice appear frequently in their works.
Simone de Beauvoir and Existential Feminism
Simone de Beauvoir
The Second Sex
Simone de Beauvoir played a major role in spreading existentialist ideas. She studied at the Sorbonne, where she met Sartre. Their intellectual partnership lasted many years.
Her book The Second Sex examines the historical condition of women. She argues that women have been defined by society as “the other.” According to her, women must create their own identity rather than accept roles imposed on them.
Her novels such as She Came to Stay and The Mandarins explore freedom, political commitment, and personal relationships. She extended existentialism into the field of gender studies.
Core Themes of Existentialism
To understand existentialism clearly, we must focus on its main ideas:
1. Freedom
Human beings are free to choose. This freedom cannot be avoided.
2. Responsibility
With freedom comes responsibility. We cannot blame society, fate, or others for our actions.
3. Authenticity
To live authentically means to live honestly according to one’s own choices, not blindly following social expectations.
4. Absurdity
Life does not always make sense. The universe does not provide ready-made answers.
5. Isolation
Every individual ultimately stands alone. No one can fully share another person’s inner experience.
Conclusion
Existentialism is not merely a philosophical theory; it is a deep reflection on human existence. From Kierkegaard’s focus on personal faith to Sartre’s emphasis on freedom, and from Camus’ idea of the absurd to Kafka’s portrayal of isolation, existentialism explores the struggles of modern human beings.
In literature, existentialism gives us characters who question life, suffer in silence, and search for meaning in a silent universe. It teaches us that life may not come with fixed answers, but we have the power to create our own meaning through our actions.
In today’s fast-changing world, existentialism remains relevant. It reminds us that we are free, responsible, and capable of shaping our own destiny.
Read This Also : Literary Movement Existentialism Quiz : 15 MCQs
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