Albert Camus' the Stranger Albert Camus' "The Term Paper

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Albert Camus' the Stranger

Albert Camus' "The Stranger" (L'Etranger) is a story of how the protagonist Meursault is eventually condemned to die because he would not conform to what society expected of him. Meursault throughout the novel remains is own person: he reacts to situations exactly the way he wants to. His reactions are uncompromising even in the face of opposition and danger. Society expects us to behave within the bounds of specific norms. Society, especially in Meursault's case) left no room for individualism. Camus' novel is a testament to individuality as opposed to working for the greater good of society. Meursault is condemned because he is a non-conformist.

Meursault's character is one which does not worry about expressing emotion. Eventually society uses this part of his character against him. Meursault, confronted with the death of his mother does not react by being outwardly distraught. He does feel sadness, but he continues with his life. He even goes out on date with a former colleague. This is not to say Meursault lacks emotion.

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Society expects certain emotions meant to be linked to specific events. Meursault cannot accept this social obligation imposed upon his life; he is an outsider to the society in which he lives.

Further representative of Meursault's adamancy to concern himself with expressing emotion is his relationship with Marie. When inquired about marriage, Meursault indifferently responds that he would if "she wanted to." As traditionally viewed in society, marriage is a bond of love and affection; yet Meursault is completely indifference to the notion of romance, love or sharing. He is apathetic to the needs of the woman who loves him.

Meursault represents a fundamental truth (though unusual and unique) that true emotion comes from within and does not need public recognition. This is why Meursault is a true stranger. Society is threatened by this new way of thinking and so Meursault is cast on the outside. During the course of events involving Marie and a friend, Raymond, in a retroactive act of self-defense, Meursault shoots an Arab to death. When….....

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