Rhinoceros / The Chairs / The Lesson by eugène ionesco

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

Rhinoceros, a play that delves into the rising of a totalitarian political system,展现了突然改变的现状所带来的荒谬疯狂以及偏执。

The Chairs and The Lesson, on the other hand, seem to be adrift in time and insanity, highlighting the difficulties in communication.

In Rhinoceros, we witness how the characters are gradually consumed by the allure of the totalitarian ideology, losing their individuality and rationality. The sudden transformation of society into a state of chaos and paranoia is both disturbing and thought-provoking.

Similarly, in The Chairs and The Lesson, the characters struggle to communicate effectively, leading to misunderstandings and further confusion. The plays seem to suggest that in a world where language and meaning are constantly shifting, true communication becomes almost impossible.

Overall, these works offer a powerful commentary on the human condition in the face of political upheaval and social breakdown. They remind us of the importance of maintaining our individuality, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate clearly in a world that often seems to be losing its grip on reality.

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iora89

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

This book was truly AMAZING.

I think it was because it stood out so distinctly from other plays that I have read thus far.

Moreover, it holds the honor of being the first Avant-Guard play in the modern era.

Perhaps this very fact is what makes it not only different but also incredibly interesting and, to some extent, rather shocking.

The unique style and approach of this play must have been quite revolutionary when it was first introduced.

It challenges the traditional norms and expectations of what a play should be, taking the audience on a journey that is both unexpected and thought-provoking.

Reading this play was like opening a door to a whole new world of theatrical expression, and I can't wait to explore more works in this genre.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for something fresh and exciting in the world of literature and drama.

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ThaInfinite

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

en francais, comme ci comme ca. I'm not a huge fan of reading plays.

Plays, in my opinion, can be quite challenging to engage with. The format, with its dialogue-driven nature and stage directions, sometimes makes it difficult for me to fully immerse myself in the story.

Unlike novels or short stories, where the author can describe the setting, characters, and emotions in great detail, plays rely more on the actors' interpretations and the stage design to bring the story to life. And when I'm just reading the text, I often find myself struggling to imagine how it would look and feel on stage.

However, I do recognize the value and importance of plays in the world of literature and the performing arts. They have the power to tell powerful stories, explore complex themes, and engage audiences in a unique way. Maybe one day, I'll give plays another chance and try to approach them with a more open mind.

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Lychee3

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

Rhinoceros als hoogtepunt.

Rhinoceros are truly remarkable and magnificent creatures that can be considered a high point in the animal kingdom.

These massive beasts have a unique and imposing presence. Their thick, armored skin and powerful bodies make them stand out.

With their distinctive horns, they have become symbols of strength and resilience.

However, rhinos are facing numerous threats, including habitat loss and poaching.

Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure their survival.

We must work together to protect these precious animals and preserve their place as a hoogtepunt in our natural world.

By raising awareness and taking action, we can give rhinos a fighting chance for a future.

Let us not allow these magnificent creatures to disappear from our planet.

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AyanoAnimelist

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

The Rhino is indeed a powerful symbol representing a sudden and impactful wave that sweeps through society. It bears a striking resemblance to the themes explored in Albert Camus' "La Peste".

Both the play "Rhinoceros" and the book "La Peste" deal with similar profound ideas. In "Rhinoceros", the only character who refuses to conform to the standards of society and convert into a Rhino stands as a unique figure.

This character's unwavering stance shows that there is no absolute reality of living. Instead, we, as a society, construct and define our reality in the way we choose.

We have the power to shape our world and determine what is considered normal or acceptable. The story of "Rhinoceros" serves as a reminder that we should not blindly follow the crowd but rather think independently and question the norms that govern our lives.

It challenges us to look beyond the surface and see the true nature of things. By doing so, we can strive to create a more just and equitable society that values individuality and diversity.

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Rasmita

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

I vividly remember seeing a performance of this in Seattle a long time ago. The moment it started, I was completely captivated. The use of allegory in the performance was simply breathtaking. It was like a magical journey that took me to a world of hidden meanings and profound emotions. Each scene was crafted with such precision and artistry that it left me in awe. The actors brought the allegorical elements to life in the most vivid way, making it easy for the audience to understand and connect with the deeper messages. The stage settings, lighting, and music all added to the overall beauty and impact of the performance. By the end of it, I was truly blown out of my seat with the sheer gorgeousness of the allegory. It was an experience that I will never forget and one that has stayed with me ever since.

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AronSensation

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

I truly loved it.

It was an experience that left an indelible mark on my heart.

The moment I encountered it, I was immediately drawn in by its charm and allure.

Every aspect of it seemed to speak to me on a deep level.

The colors were vibrant, the sounds were enchanting, and the overall atmosphere was simply magical.

I found myself completely immersed in it, forgetting about everything else around me.

It was like a haven, a place where I could escape and just be myself.

I cherished every moment spent with it and will always remember it fondly.

Loved it with all my heart.

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Crez

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

July 15,2025

I sometimes find myself pondering how seriously the theatre of the absurd is truly regarded. It is taught in schools, perhaps due to its humorous nature and its ease of comprehension for spotty teenagers who have numerous other concerns on their minds. Consequently, we tend to associate it with our youthful and immature selves. But just how seriously is it intended to be taken, anyway? After all, it is the theatre of the absurd.

The answer, it turns out, is that it is indeed very serious. It endeavors to address the most fundamental questions of all - the nature of our existence and how we conduct ourselves. The combination of existentialism and comedy is what makes it truly genius, especially if, like me, you view comedy (and happiness) as an integral part of the solution.

Ionesco is outstanding in all respects. "The Rhinoceros" is a hilarious and revealing story about how the people in a French provincial town gradually turn into rhinoceroses, one by one. How should those remaining respond? By panicking? Or by taking it in their stride? Ionesco manages to simultaneously mock the customs and mores of a parochial small town while also making profound observations about the human condition.

In doing so, he is constantly keeping us on our toes. So, it is better to be an individual and do what you believe is right rather than follow the crowd - or is it? It is better to hold firmly to your beliefs and not succumb to unbounded relativism where nothing is necessarily as it appears - or is it? And the questions continue to multiply.

Read, laugh, learn - and beware of the stampede!!

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Rhinoceros / The Chairs / The Lesson

eugène ionesco derek prouse donald watson

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eugène ionesco

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