- Illogical and non-sensical plots: The focus is on the underlying meaning and themes rather than on a coherent narrative.
- Non-realistic characters: Characters may be grotesque, archetypal, or symbolic.
- Repetitive and meaningless conversation: Characters often find themselves in circular conversations or engage in seemingly meaningless dialogue.
- Elements of the surreal and the irrational: Time and space may be distorted, dream-like or nightmarish.
- Audience alienation and disorientation: Theatre of the Absurd often seeks to provoke and challenge its audience, sometimes by making them feel uncomfortable or confused.
- Existential themes: Absurdist plays often explore themes such as the meaninglessness of existence, the conflict between reason and emotion, and the challenges of communication and understanding.