Existential fiction is a genre of literature that focuses on the philosophical concept of existentialism, which explores the human condition in a universe that is often viewed as indifferent or even hostile. This genre is characterized by its exploration of themes such as the meaning of life, the nature of existence, and the struggle to find purpose in a seemingly meaningless world.
Existential fiction is not limited to any particular time period or cultural context, and it can be found in works from various countries and eras. However, it is most commonly associated with the 19th and 20th centuries, when existentialism as a philosophical movement was at its peak. Some of the most famous existential fiction authors include Fyodor Dostoevsky, Franz Kafka, Albert Camus, and Jean-Paul Sartre.
Origins of Existential Fiction
The origins of existential fiction can be traced back to the 19th century, with the works of Fyodor Dostoevsky and Friedrich Nietzsche often cited as early examples of this genre. Dostoevsky’s novels, such as “Notes from Underground” and “Crime and Punishment,” explore themes of existential despair and the struggle for meaning in a world that seems devoid of it.
Nietzsche, on the other hand, is often associated with the concept of the “Ubermensch” or “Superman,” a figure who creates his own values in a world where traditional moral codes have been rendered obsolete. His works, such as “Thus Spoke Zarathustra,” are often considered precursors to the existential fiction genre.
19th Century Existential Fiction
During the 19th century, existential fiction was largely characterized by its focus on individual struggle and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe. This was a period of great social and political upheaval, and many authors used their work to explore the human condition in this context.
One of the most notable authors of this period was Fyodor Dostoevsky, whose novels are often considered some of the earliest examples of existential fiction. His works, such as “Notes from Underground” and “Crime and Punishment,” explore themes of existential despair and the struggle for meaning in a world that seems devoid of it.
20th Century Existential Fiction
During the 20th century, existential fiction became more closely associated with the philosophical movement of existentialism. This was a period of great intellectual and cultural change, and many authors used their work to explore the human condition in this new context.
One of the most notable authors of this period was Albert Camus, whose novels, such as “The Stranger” and “The Plague,” are often considered some of the most important works of existential fiction. His works explore themes of alienation, absurdity, and the struggle for meaning in a world that seems devoid of it.
Themes in Existential Fiction
Existential fiction is characterized by its exploration of themes such as the meaning of life, the nature of existence, and the struggle to find purpose in a seemingly meaningless world. These themes are often explored through the use of complex characters who are grappling with existential crises.
One of the most common themes in existential fiction is the concept of “the absurd,” or the idea that life is inherently meaningless and that any attempt to find meaning or purpose is ultimately futile. This theme is often explored through the use of characters who are struggling to come to terms with the absurdity of their existence.
The Absurd
The concept of “the absurd” is a central theme in existential fiction. This term, which was popularized by Albert Camus in his essay “The Myth of Sisyphus,” refers to the idea that life is inherently meaningless and that any attempt to find meaning or purpose is ultimately futile.
In existential fiction, the absurd is often represented through characters who are grappling with existential crises. These characters often struggle to find meaning in a world that seems indifferent or even hostile to their existence.
Existential Despair
Another common theme in existential fiction is the concept of existential despair. This term refers to the feeling of hopelessness and despair that can result from the realization that life is inherently meaningless and devoid of purpose.
In existential fiction, existential despair is often represented through characters who are grappling with feelings of hopelessness and despair. These characters often struggle to find meaning and purpose in their lives, and their struggles are often portrayed in a deeply emotional and introspective manner.
Notable Authors and Works of Existential Fiction
There are many notable authors and works in the genre of existential fiction. Some of the most famous existential fiction authors include Fyodor Dostoevsky, Franz Kafka, Albert Camus, and Jean-Paul Sartre.
Each of these authors has made significant contributions to the genre of existential fiction, and their works continue to be studied and appreciated by readers and scholars around the world.
Fyodor Dostoevsky
Fyodor Dostoevsky is often considered one of the pioneers of existential fiction. His novels, such as “Notes from Underground” and “Crime and Punishment,” are characterized by their exploration of existential themes and their complex, introspective characters.
“Notes from Underground,” in particular, is often cited as one of the earliest examples of existential fiction. The novel’s protagonist, known only as the Underground Man, is a deeply introspective and alienated individual who struggles to find meaning and purpose in his life.
Albert Camus
Albert Camus is another notable author in the genre of existential fiction. His novels, such as “The Stranger” and “The Plague,” are characterized by their exploration of existential themes and their complex, introspective characters.
“The Stranger,” in particular, is often cited as one of the most important works of existential fiction. The novel’s protagonist, Meursault, is a deeply alienated individual who struggles to find meaning and purpose in his life.
Impact and Influence of Existential Fiction
Existential fiction has had a significant impact on literature and culture. Its exploration of existential themes and its focus on the human condition have influenced a wide range of authors and works, from novels and plays to films and television shows.
Moreover, existential fiction has also had a significant impact on philosophy and psychology. Its exploration of existential themes has contributed to the development of existentialism as a philosophical movement, and its focus on the human condition has influenced the field of existential psychology.
Influence on Literature
Existential fiction has had a significant influence on literature. Its exploration of existential themes and its focus on the human condition have influenced a wide range of authors and works.
For example, the works of Fyodor Dostoevsky and Albert Camus have influenced a wide range of authors, from Ernest Hemingway and William Faulkner to J.D. Salinger and Haruki Murakami. Moreover, the themes and concepts explored in existential fiction have also influenced genres such as science fiction and horror.
Influence on Philosophy and Psychology
Existential fiction has also had a significant impact on philosophy and psychology. Its exploration of existential themes has contributed to the development of existentialism as a philosophical movement, and its focus on the human condition has influenced the field of existential psychology.
For example, the works of Fyodor Dostoevsky and Albert Camus have influenced philosophers such as Friedrich Nietzsche and Jean-Paul Sartre, who have made significant contributions to the development of existentialism as a philosophical movement. Moreover, the themes and concepts explored in existential fiction have also influenced psychologists such as Rollo May and Viktor Frankl, who have made significant contributions to the field of existential psychology.
Conclusion
In conclusion, existential fiction is a genre of literature that explores the human condition in a universe that is often viewed as indifferent or even hostile. Its exploration of existential themes and its focus on the human condition have influenced a wide range of authors and works, and its impact can be seen in literature, philosophy, and psychology.
Whether you’re a reader looking to explore the human condition, a writer seeking to understand the craft of storytelling, or a scholar interested in the intersection of literature and philosophy, existential fiction offers a rich and rewarding field of study.
Kathryn Taylor was born and raised in the Midwest and has been a book lover and writer since childhood. As a queer teenager, she found solace in writing, and has written professionally ever since graduating from college. She loves a variety of fiction book genres, including romance books, thrillers, YA, sci-fi, and adventure. She's also a fan of the Oxford comma.
Kathryn has received numerous awards for her writing and now writes exclusively for RT Book Reviews. She is a passionate activist in the LGBTQ+ community, speaking at conferences and leading queer writing workshops. When not reading and writing, Kathryn enjoys visiting local libraries and bookstores across the country, exploring new cities, and spending time with her family.
