Rosencrantz and Guildenstern

After reading Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead by Tom Soppard, I thought that such a literary masterpiece of that same caliber could not be equaled. However, Samuel Beckett, author of Waiting for Godot has also created a stunning work about two lost men seeking a point to their existence, always looking to the nonexistent for enlightenment. This similarity is so striking that in several points during the story, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern merged with Estragon and Vladimir, so similar were the two characters in some respects. One of many things that made Estragon and Valdimir similar to Rosencrantz and Guildenstern is their inclination to play games with world. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern played the question game where they would ask each other nothing but questions. Ros: We could play at questions. In turn, Estragon and Vladimir also seek ways to distract themselves from the realities of life through word games. Estragon: Thats the idea, lets abuse each other. They turn, move apart, turn again and face each other. Vladimir: How time flies when one has fun! Another striking similarity between the two plays was the constant way in which the main characters questioned everything. These questions, in both cases, stemmed from the main characters amazing lack of memory. Guil: ...Whats the first thing you remember? Ros: Oh, lets see....The first thing that comes into my head, you mean? Guil: No-the first thing you remember. Ros: Ah. (pause) No, its no good, its gone. It was a long time ago. Guil: (Patient but edged) You dont get my meaning. What is the first thing after all the things youve forgotten? Ros: Oh I see. (Pause) Ive forgotten the question.