A Conceptual Analysis of Being in Bertolt Brecht's Mother Courage and Her Children through the Lens of Sartre’s Existentialism

This study conducted a comprehensive conceptual analysis of the existential concepts of Being-for-Itself and Being-for-Others in Bertolt Brecht's iconic play, Mother Courage and Her Children, utilizing Jean-Paul Sartre's philosophical lens. The narrative unfolded against war, offering a profound exploration of individual existence and interpersonal relationships. Sartre's existentialism provided a theoretical framework to scrutinize the characters, focusing on the central figure, Mother Courage. The study examined how Mother Courage embodies the concept of Being-for-Itself, emphasizing individual freedom, choice, and the continuous process of self-creation. Furthermore, it delved into the dynamics of Being-for-Others, elucidating the interplay of relationships within the context of existential philosophy. Through an in-depth analysis of the characters and their interactions, this study sought to unravel the existential nuances embedded in Brecht's work, shedding light on the intricate relationship between existentialism and dramatic narrative. Extending the analysis of works of literature from different cultural backgrounds opens avenues for exploring how existential themes are articulated in diverse cultural contexts and allows for examining potential variations in the portrayal of being-for-itself and being-for-others, offering a nuanced understanding of existential concepts across cultures.