Hello, Cruel World: Antonin Artaud’s Pursuit of Primal Theatre
Abstract
This thesis delves into the most volatile years of the notoriously volatile life of French
poet and theatrical theorist Antonin Artaud (1896–1948). At the heart of the research is an
examination of his voyages to Mexico and Ireland, as these seem to be relatively neglected in
relation to understanding his body of work. The research encompasses biographies of Artaud, his
own account of his Mexican excursion, as well as his essays, letters, plays, and poems in English
translation. In addition, books and articles with varied interpretations of his work, and excerpts
of the Irish Department of External Affairs file, “Enquiry from Antonin Artaud re: ‘Sources d’Antiques Traditions’ in Ireland’” as published in the Dublin Review . The research shows a remarkable consistency in his artistic voice. It was also discovered that after returning from
Mexico, he made peace with several figures he renounced early in his career. The significance of his correspondence with publisher Jacques Rivière is further noted.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1. "My lucid unreason is not afraid of chaos.” -- Chapter 2. “It is useless to give excuses for this precise delirium.” -- Chapter 3. “No one knows how to scream any more in Europe.” -- Chapter 4. “All problems are incomprehensible.” -- Chapter 5. “This crucible of fire and real meat” -- Chapter 6. “Now I repeat, death is an invented state” -- Chapter 7. “The breathing of freedom was elsewhere.” -- Conclusion
Degree
M.A.