Although the theories in existentialism were present before the 1990's, existentialism was at its peak during the 20th century. Three major events of the 20th century explain the reason for existentialism's popularity. ... Therefore, because of the violent nature of World War I, existentialism became more popular. World War II also boosted the popularity of existentialism. ... After World War II, the Cold War emerged; it too popularized the theory of existentialism. ...

• Word Count: 746
• Approx Pages: 3

Existentialism is an extreme, really almost absurdist view that there is no inherent truth or meaning in the universe. The classic existentialism time period occurred after World War II, as a result of the alienation and bitterness felt by so many people. ... Grendel has had an epiphany, in which he fully accepts existentialism- he is the one that matters, exists, and he is the creator of the universe. ... In true existentialism fashion Grendel decides he must find his individual purpose, "The world is all pointless accident,"" I say. ...

• Word Count: 615
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: High School

Another important figure in his time was Friedrich Nietzsche who helped pave the way to the idea of Existentialism, a way of coping with uncertainty. ... Existentialism accepts uncertainty and the anxiety that it causes as part of our existence. ... Before Existentialism, Soren Kierkegaard surfaced the validity of absurdity by explaining the acceptance of Christianity as a "Leap of Faith". ...

• Word Count: 1354
• Approx Pages: 5

Following in the revolutionary footsteps that Nietzsche laid out in world of philosophical thinking, were two equally, if not more influential ideas called logical empiricism (or logical positivism), and existentialism. ... In response to all of this uncertainty and anxiety another form of philosophical thinking emerged called existentialism. ...

• Word Count: 1360
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

This essay will discuss the development of theatre in the 20th century. It will be discussed in chronological order. It will trace the development of theatre from the late 19th century through realism, naturalism, symbolism, Epic theatre, Existentialism and the Theatre of the Absurd. With each new g...

• Word Count: 1652
• Approx Pages: 7
• Grade Level: High School