Manifestations of Taboo in Contemporary English Drama: Sarah Kane's (Blasted as a Case Study)

ABSTRACT Objective: This study explores the manifestations of taboo in contemporary English drama, using Sarah Kane’s Blasted as a case study. It seeks to identify the different forms of taboo and the artistic techniques adopted by the playwright to break them. Theoretical framework: The theoretical framework addresses the concept of taboo, its functions, and its relationship to what is considered acceptable and unacceptable, as well as to social, religious, cultural, and psychological systems. It also explores the relationship between taboo, dramatic discourse, and the theatre of shock. Results: The practical part of the study explores the manifestations of taboo in war, violence, language, and the body. In addition to death and suicide. To break these taboos, the playwright employs direct confrontation, shocking language, juxtaposition, bodily imagery, and the fragmentation of dramatic structure. Conclusion: The study concludes that taboo in contemporary drama is converted from a prohibited subject into an artistic and critical device for exposing the unspeakable, questioning prevailing systems and values, and revealing aspects of violence, destruction, and human collapse. It also contributes to deepening the semantic dimensions of the dramatic text.