setting

 

Existentialism 

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The setting opens up with Rosencrantz and Guildenstern on an empty stage flipping coins. The set is barren as the two characters indulge in this game of probability and chance. The empty stage represents the fate of the characters. Rosencrantz and Guildensterns decision will enforce the direction that the drama goes. This is a key component to the philosophy surrounding this play of existentialism.

 

This approach that emphasizes the existence of the individual person as a free and responsible agent determining their own development through acts of the will. This is evident in Act One as Rosencrantz and Guildenstern encounter the Tragedians on their trip. The meeting was not planned or forseen but the choices the protagnist have made have lead them on this path to 

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Determinism

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The determinist philosophy demonstrates that the events that occur are already layed out. This contrasting philosophy of existentialism can be applied to Rosencrantz and Guildsterns various settings. As servants to the King and friends with Hamlet, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern venture to where they ordered to.

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This approach is evident the Act Three when the protagonist are sent to England to accompany Hamlet. The setting occurs on the high sea. Guildenstern demonstrates that he is fond with the pre-determinism of his setting. Guildenstern exclaims that he likes  "the way they're-contained. You don't have to worry about which way to go, or whether to go at all-the question doesn't arise, because you're on a boat, aren't you?" The quest the two protagonist take resembles that their setting is based on where their master predetermines them to go.