ALIENATION AND QUEST FOR SELF: A STUDY OF EDWARD ALBEE'S THE ZOO STORY

Abstract

The Zoo Story 1959 is a landmark play of modern American drama that explores the themes of alienation existential anxiety and the quest for self in an increasingly fragmented society Through the contrasting characters of Jerry and Peter Albee exposes the psychological isolation and failure of communication that characterize modern urban life Jerrys desperate attempt to establish a genuine human connection with Peter reveals his profound loneliness and his search for identity and meaning in a world marked by indifference and emotional detachment Peter on the other hand represents the complacent middle class individual whose material comfort conceals spiritual emptiness and emotional alienation The play demonstrates how the breakdown of interpersonal relationships results in existential isolation making authentic communication almost impossible Drawing upon existential philosophy and the principles of the Theatre of the Absurd this study examines how Albee portrays the modern individuals struggle for identity belonging and self realization It argues that Jerrys sacrificial death functions as a final act of self assertion compelling Peter to confront his own emotional sterility and existential predicament By analyzing the symbolic structure dramatic techniques and psychological dimensions of the play this paper highlights Albees critique of modern society and his enduring concern with the human condition Ultimately The Zoo Story presents alienation not merely as a social condition but as an existential crisis that can be overcome only through authentic human engagement and self awareness