- 1. No Exit, a one-act play written by Jean-Paul Sartre, is a profound existential exploration of the human condition, particularly focusing on themes of free will, self-deception, and the complex dynamics of interpersonal relationships. Set in a small, windowless room in hell, the narrative brings together three main characters: Garcin, Inès, and Estelle, each of whom have died and arrived at this eternal confinement. The play famously encapsulates Sartre's assertion that 'Hell is other people,' as the characters are forced to confront the inescapable truths of their personalities and pasts under the oppressive gaze of one another. Instead of traditional tortures, their punishment is psychological, stemming from their inability to escape their judgments and the recognition of their own moral failings. As the characters interact, they engage in a relentless cycle of accusation, manipulation, and self-justification, reflecting Sartre's philosophy of existentialism which emphasizes the importance of individual choice and the burdens of responsibility. The claustrophobic setting and the intense dialogue create a powerful atmosphere that illustrates the tension between desire for connection and the fear of true intimacy, ultimately leading to a bleak yet striking commentary on the nature of existence, identity, and the consequences of one's actions in a world devoid of divine judgment.
What is the original French title of 'No Exit'?
A) Les Mots B) La Nausée C) Le Mur D) Huis Clos
- 2. Who are the three main characters in 'No Exit'?
A) Estelle, Inès, Mathieu B) Garcin, Louis, Roquentin C) Inès, Garcin, Valère D) Garcin, Estelle, Inès
- 3. Where does the play take place?
A) In a hospital B) In a room in hell C) In a prison D) At a train station
- 4. Which character is a former journalist?
A) Valère B) Inès C) Garcin D) Estelle
- 5. What does Estelle seek from the others?
A) Indifference B) Escape C) Validation D) Control
- 6. What does Garcin ultimately fear?
A) Being alone forever B) The fire of hell C) The darkness D) Being judged by the others
- 7. In what year was 'No Exit' first performed?
A) 1951 B) 1938 C) 1960 D) 1944
- 8. Which philosophical movement is Sartre associated with?
A) Fatalism B) Existentialism C) Marxism D) Structuralism
- 9. What literary style is 'No Exit' written in?
A) Romantic comedy B) Absurdist play C) Tragedy D) Historical drama
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