Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 أستاذ - جامعة الشهید مدنی بأذربیجان
2 استاذة بجامعة الشهید مدنی بأذربیجان
3 PhD student in Arabic Language and Literature, Azarbaijan Shahid Madani University
Abstract
The concept of freedom, one of the most complex and expansive philosophical concepts, has always been at the center of many scholars' attention. Existentialist philosophy, with its focus on the existential and ontological dimensions of human beings, offers a unique perspective on the concept of freedom. In this philosophy, human beings, as free beings, are responsible for shaping their own lives and determining their destiny. Existentialists believe that, unlike many other beings, humans do not possess a predetermined essence and instead create their essence through the free choices they make throughout their lives. In this research, using a descriptive-analytical method, the main characteristics of freedom in existentialist philosophy and its manifestation in two famous novels, The Old Man and the Sea and When We Left the Bridge, have been examined. The main characters in these two novels, when faced with challenging situations and difficult decisions, are forced to accept responsibility for their choices. This research endeavors to demonstrate how these characters, relying on their existential freedom, struggle against life's limitations and challenges, ultimately arriving at a profound meaning of existence. These two novels demonstrate that confronting freedom and responsibility shapes the path of self-creation and the search for meaning. Santiago’s courageous acceptance of his choices leads to honor and meaning, whereas Zaki Nawi’s evasion of this existential burden hinders his authenticity and self-creation. This comparison affirms the universality of fundamental human experiences like freedom and the quest for meaning across diverse cultures.
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