Nathalie Sarraute et l’ironie du Silence
Nathalie Sarraute and the irony of Silence

Author(s): Elena Simina Bădărău
Subject(s): Language and Literature Studies, Applied Linguistics, Studies of Literature, French Literature
Published by: Editura Junimea
Keywords: silence; anxiety; contradiction; irony; dramatic effect; Nathalie Sarraute;
Summary/Abstract: Especially known as a novelist, Nathalie Sarraute is also interested in theatre, although she doesn't actually follow its traditional rules. Accordingly, there are no real characters in her writings, no discourse or linguistic identity. On the other hand, one can notice significant efforts to keep up with the reality, which is ironic, even dramatic. Moreover, the sole character who seems to have a name, Jean-Pierre, simply intensifies the endless void closing in upon characters, for he obstinately remains silent. In a word, this very silence ends up by losing its neutral, calm nature, making thus room for anxiety. Ironically, at the end of the play, the individual conscience, as well as the collective conscience, is about to collapse.

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