Existentialism in The Gift: Philosophy and Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Paul F. McDonald ~ Aug 18 2001

What I find truly interesting about existentialism is its prevailing idea that humanity's condition is defined by two primary elements - the tragic and the absurd. When seen in this context, Buffy goes from being compatible with this philosophy to simply representative of it. What could be more tragic than a star-crossed love affair between a vampire with a soul and a vampire slayer? What could be more absurd than going on a field trip only to discover some of your classmates were possessed by hyenas?

 

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