“The Stranger” is a novel by Albert Camus that centers around the character of Meursault, a detached and apathetic Algerian man residing in French Algiers. The narrative opens with the news of Meursault’s mother’s death, and the story unfolds as Meursault navigates the aftermath of this event.
Throughout the novel, Meursault exhibits a dispassionate and detached demeanor, seeming unaffected by societal norms and expectations, which ultimately leads to his alienation from those around him.
The novel takes a thought-provoking turn when Meursault becomes involved in a violent and senseless act, further complicating his disengaged and detached outlook on life.
As the story unfolds, Meursault’s trial and the subsequent examination of his character prompt a deeper exploration of existential themes, including the nature of truth, the absurdity of life, and the human struggle for meaning.
Through Meursault’s introspective narration, Camus offers an unflinching portrayal of the human condition, challenging readers to confront the inherent absurdity and indifference of existence.
“The Stranger” by Albert Camus remains a timeless and compelling work that continues to provoke philosophical contemplation and critical examination of the complexities of human experience.
