DE L'ACTION DANS LES CONQUÉRANTS D’ANDRÉ MALRAUX ET VOL DE NUIT D’ANTOINE DE SAINT-EXUPERY (1931): UNE ÉTUDE COMPARÉE

The comparative study of the novels Les Conquérants by André Malraux and Vol de nuit by
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry relies on Jean-Paul Sartre's existentialist theory to explore the
foundations of action. In a between-the-wars context marked by absurdity, both authors aim to
promote new values through adventure. The analysis aims to identify similarities and differences
in the process of accomplishing action, considering it as the ultimate means for the heroes to
escape the absurdity resulting from the decline of Western civilization. For Malraux, action is a
revolutionary adventure seeking a form of "power" and strength to give meaning to existence,
while for Saint-Exupéry, it is based on a professional adventure aiming for self- transcendence
and fulfillment. Despite these differences, both authors advocate heroic values such as courage
and self-sacrifice in the pursuit of action.
Key-words: action, means, heroic values, revolution, profession