A Conversation-Analytic Approach to Repetition in Waiting for Godot

Abstract

Repetition is prevalent not only in literary works but also in ordinary conversation. This research examines types and functions of repetition from an interactional perspective in Waiting for Godot, a modern play written by S. Beckett (1954). Adopting notions and methodology of conversation analysis (CA), this research provides a CA-based analysis of repetition in the play. After discussing the plot and explanations of the play, this research shows that repetition is one of the major devices for creating the absurdity and meaninglessness of which is symbolically represented in terms of waiting for Godot. To show that, this study explores functions of repetition in a local domain in the following terms: (i) initiating repair, (ii) mimicking or imitating prior utterances, and (iii) signaling the speaker`s emotional attitudes or stance. This study also shows that `WAIT FOR GODOT` functions as a global theme for the play. Exploration of the functions of repetition in the play shows the roles of repetition as devices for creating special effects and signalling the writer`s intention, creating in the mind of the audience feelings such as meaninglessness of everyday life, alienation, and dreariness. Finally, this research shows that an interactional approach can be usefully applied to an analysis of conversations in literary works (eg, novels and plays).