ABSURDITY IN THE NOVELS OF ERNEST HEMINGWAY

The study is qualitative in nature that employs content analysis. The study utilized a Formalistic approach in identifying the main characters' characteristics, qualifying them and their situations as absurd. Biographical Approach is utilized to understand the text in the context of the author's experiences directly and indirectly and his motivations based on his biography. The results showed that Frederick Henry of A Farewell to Arms and Richard Cantwell of Across the River and into the Trees are both experiencing the absurdity of their life. Richard Cantwell experiences Albert Camus's concept of predetermining absurdity or the inevitability of death. On the other hand, Frederick Henry experienced the uncertainty of living life like Albert Camus's absurdity of living. To overcome absurdity, both characters indulge in love. However, Richard Cantwell indulges in love for immortality while Frederick Henry for the reason of continuing life. Still, love cannot sustain life for freedom. It only serves as an excuse and escapes from absurdity. In the end, they embrace the futility of the absurd and achieve freedom which Albert Camus's important doctrine of absurdism.