Abstract

This study uses Zen Buddhism and Chaos theory as binocular lenses to examine the existential difficulties in Samuel Beckett's plays in terms that circumvent traditional Western schools of thought. The book first outlines the salient points of Zen Buddhism and Chaos theory, examining the interplay of ideas between the two disciplines. The balance of the book uses Zen and Chaos theory to reveal new patterns and layers of meaning (or non meaning) in several of Beckett's most significant plays.