Introduction

Through drawing an analogy between Debord’s analysis of the society of the spectacle and the theatre of the absurd written by Beckett, this dissertation scrutinizes a subtle manipulation that achieves through the prevailing absurdity concealed behind dominant spectacles. While absurdism often adopts death as the eventual and only way out, this paper avoids directing to an inherent desperate ultimate but to construct a comparison between contemporary society and the theatre of the absurd – Waiting for Godot, Endgame, and Krapp’s Last Tape in particular – to disclose the status quo from a multi-dimensional perspective. It posits that a chronic, overwhelming absurdity is at the center of habitual domination of visuality under the rampant tyranny of the over-developed capitalism, meanwhile, digs out a thorny question that human beings are stuck in the vortex of passive domestication churned out by gorgeous spectacles while remaining insouciant, reticent, and self-deceitful.

If interested, you may read Thomas’ Dissertation here.

Experience at MALCS

MALCS offers an excellent platform for exchanging inspiring ideas, fostering rigorous and passionate academic attitudes, enhancing research capacity, and engaging with advanced topics.

I have been inspired by a variety of innovative perspectives and well-constructed logical systems during the learning and researching experience at MALCS. With the generous and beneficial support from our professors, I was able to explore further in the field of literary and cultural studies without taking too many detours. They are always responsive and welcome all kinds of enquiries relevant to students’ academic development, which left me deeply impressed.

MALCS did not only open the door of literary and cultural studies for me, but also triggered my passion for doing academic research. The best thing is to empower you with the capacity as well as draw forth your interests to act with your competence.