Existentialism in Literature: A Comparative Study of Naguib Mahfouz's The Thief and the Dogs and Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot

Abstract This research thesis detects the philosophy of existence, depicted in two historical literary works: Egyptian novelist Naguib Mahfuz and Waiting for Godot (1953) by Irish playwright Samuel Beckett, by Chor and the Dogs (1961). Although they originate from separate cultural and literary traditions, both texts express concern about life's equality, the separation of the individual, and the quest for meaning in a chaotic world. This comparative study analyses the heroes' struggles with despair, alternative identities, and the postponement of universal resonance due to temporary, linguistic, and geographical boundaries. Through a careful reading of the two texts, this letter argues that "Safe and Baked" presents a vision of existence that is relevant to modern readers. Both Mahfuz and Beckett rent minimalist settings and fragmented narratives to reflect the internal turmoil of their protagonists. The use of circulation-of-cognisance in Mahfuz’s paintings contrasts with the cyclical dialogue in Beckett’s play, yet each technique serves to underline the uncertainty and instability of human notions. These stylistic choices no longer most effectively enhance the philosophical intensity of the texts but also invite readers to interact more in detail with the characters’ psychological landscapes and existential fears.