Literary techniques

Question 1

Symbol of Hats

Answer 1

Lucky needs his hat to think, and stops his long monologue once it is removed.
In act two Estragon and Vladimir exchange four hats.
This scene could represent the fluidity and instability of individual identities.
It is uncertain whether the characters are being themselves or if they are ‘playing’ characters.

Question 2

Symbolism of Godot’s name

Answer 2

The name Godot evokes a similarity to God.
Symbolises the salvation that religion promises, but never comes.
The similarity between “Godot” and “God” could also be a kind of red herring from Beckett.
This would be in line with other character names like Estragon, which means “tarragon” which holds little significance.

Question 3

Overall symbolism of names

Answer 3

Beckett’s character names suggest the possibility of meaning but fail to deliver on this promise, just as Godot promises to save Vladimir and Estragon.
They act as examples of the nihilist worldview that pervades Waiting for Godot.

Question 4

Symbolism of the Tree

Answer 4

The only distinct piece of the setting.
Alludes to the cross on which Jesus was crucified.
The hanging parodies the religious significance.
However, Vladimir and Estragon are dying for nothing.
Vladimir and Estragon represent the two thieves, one of which is saved.
It is uncertain which of the two will be saved

Question 5

Repetition of “Shall we go?”

Answer 5

Emphasises his absurd lack of memory.
The promise of some kind of help from Godot is actually an insidious form of control and entrapment, as it forces Vladimir and Estragon to stay put, waiting indefinitely.

Question 6

Lucky’s rope

Answer 6

The rope between Pozzo and Lucky symbolises the distance between God and his slave and the control he has over his followers.
Estragon and Vladimir remind themselves to bring rope to hang themselves from.
This rope has the same purpose as Pozzo and Lucky.

Question 7

Bones

Answer 7

A symbol of poverty, the characters must beg for their survival.

Question 8

Lucky’s baggage

Answer 8

Shows the human tendency of enslavement and burdens which are unnecessary.
The relationship between Pozzo and Lucky is shown as master and slave between old testament God and new testament Christ.

Question 9

Symbolism of night

Answer 9

Estragon and Vladimir’s waiting for Godot is paralleled with their wait for nightfall.
The falling of night is like a rest from daily suffering just as death is a reprieve from life.

Question 10

Carrots and Turnips

Answer 10

Could be a hint as to the differences between the way Vladimir and Estragon live their lives.
Vladimir resigns himself to banality while Estragon wearies as time passes.