This study examines the dual relationship between reality and fantasy, which can arise by analyzing play-within-a-play and objects in Jean Genet(1910~1986)’ 『The Maids』. I tried to clarify the theatricality I did in terms of recognition and understanding of the absurdity of reality. Chosen as a research methodology, Play-within-a-Play is a basic concept of theatrical aesthetics and is one of the main methodologies of modern French theater analysis theory. In addition, this study selected the search for objects in contemporary theater as another research methodology. Focusing on Genet's 『The Maids』, the study was conducted on absurdity, a dual reality through the intersection of reality and fantasy through play and object, and value conversion. Genet is creating a formula for observing himself more deeply and reflecting on life by assimilating not only various gazes but also the gazes of the audience into the play, the reality seen through role play like play-within-a-play. Genet tried to reflect reality and fantasy in each and every object as much as the pains in his life. In addition, he confronts an absurd reality but tries to overcome human’s limitation by expressing the absurdity of rejecting and rebelling against reality in his works with the aesthetics and artistry of the play.

Jean Genet, Maids, Absurdity, play-within-a-play, Object