THE QUEST FOR TANGIBLE POWER IN THE INTANGIBLE WORLD OF ABSURD IN HAROLD PINTER’S “OLD TIMES”

Authors : Volha KORBUT SALMAN

Pages : 131-140

Doi:10.18069/firatsbed.346910

View : 37 | Download : 10

Publication Date : 2016-07-30

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Harold Pinter sets his plays in contemporary society, embellishes them with realistic settings and natural dialogue. The realism of the presentation serves as a deception, masking the absurdity underlying modern existence. Consequently, his characters use various strategies to cover up the loss of identity in the absurd world, the most prominent of which is the assertion of power that allows the temporary sense of meaning. “ Old Times” (1970) is no exception from the pattern. The whole motion of the play depends upon the vigor of the power contest among its characters - Kate, Deeley and Anna, as well as Kate’s final triumph over the two. As a result, the paper argues that “Old Times” serves as a model of power structure, in which characters attempt to dominate each other in order to counter the uncertainty, insecurity and loneliness arising from the absurdity of human condition.
Keywords : Old Times, Pinter, absurdity, ambiguity, power