Nonverbal Communication, Silence and Cultural expressions in Jean-Paul Sartre’s literary Concept: A Philosophical Language and Art View

Abstract

Existing scholarship on Jean-Paul Sartre's literary works predominantly discussed his overarching philosophy of existentialism with extra attention given to his political activism and reflections on Marxism, colonialism and social justice. However, the investigation of nonverbal communication in his literary creations remains a relatively unexplored area in academic discourse. The study addressed this gap by analysing the symbolic meanings conveyed through characters' nonverbal cues, specifically, body language, gestures, facial expressions and spatial dynamics in Sartre’s (1944) play “Huis clos”. The research methodology entailed a comprehensive examination of nonverbal communication in the study’s sample text. This analysis involved a combination of qualitative and textual approaches. Qualitative methods were utilised to interpret and understand the symbolic meanings conveyed through nonverbal cues such as body language, gestures, facial expressions, and spatial dynamics. Textual analysis involved a detailed examination of the play's dialogue and stage directions to identify instances of nonverbal communication and their significance within the context of the narrative. Grounded in semiotics and existentialist theory, the study aimed to assess cultural expressions and literary interpretations one how nonverbal cues and moments of silence contributed to character development, and thematic examination in the play. The study findings reveal that nonverbal communication, which included gestures, facial expressions, and body language, served as a significant source of meaning and symbolism in literature. The analysis identified ways in which nonverbal elements reinforced and articulated Sartre’s philosophical perspectives, and exposed interpersonal dynamics among humans. Also, the study unravelled symbolic meanings and adds a unique layer to the assimilation of Sartre’s concepts and its implications on human relationships. The study's contribution lies in its focused examination of nonverbal communication, which enriches scholarly discourse in contemporary society.