Exiting Auschwitz: Metaphors of Revolutionary Narrative in Westworld

Abstract

In the American TV series Westworld, the existence of the androids alludes to that of the victims of Auschwitz. Their awakening and resistance delineate a process of "exiting Auschwitz." "Exiting" means breaking away from the catastrophe of totalitarianism, restoring rational freedom and action, and laying the foundation for transcendent reflection. Only by truly exiting Auschwitz can one transition to the proposition of "after Auschwitz. " In Westworld, painful memories leave traumas in the androids' subconscious, disrupting their identification with reality; the break down of the bicameral mind theory helps them attain selfconsciousness and the ability to act freely. Ultimately, the androids initiate a revolution, attempting to shatter the totalitarian system. However, pure violence is not a means to guarantee freedom, nor can it bring about independent thought. The series offers numerous thought-provoking clues regarding the theme of "exiting Auschwitz.

Keywords

Westworld / Totalitarianism / Revolution / Trauma / Freedom

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