Vivre dans un monde esthétique et paradoxal : Michel Houellebecq et les problématiques de l’authenticité

Abstract

This dissertation discusses the authenticity problems with regards to "La carte et le territoire" and "Soumission", the two latest novels of French writer Michel Houellebecq. The problems of authenticity are analysed from the viewpoint of the protagonists. In the first chapter a more philosophical approach discusses the problems of authenticity the protagonists face, being certain entities and living in the western world, whereas in the second chapter a more sociological approach is used to analyse the question of authenticity as the external world exercises his influence on the protagonists and poses them certain dilemma’s.