Meursault is the protagonist of Albert Camus's novel "The Stranger." He is a complex and enigmatic character who defies traditional conventions and expectations. Throughout the novel, Meursault is portrayed as a detached and emotionless individual who does not seem to have any particular goals or values. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that Meursault's detachment and lack of emotion are not the result of a lack of depth or character, but rather a reflection of his unique philosophical perspective.
Meursault is first introduced as a seemingly ordinary young man who is indifferent to the death of his mother. This event serves as a catalyst for Meursault's journey of self-discovery and forces him to confront his own mortality and the meaning of life. Meursault's response to his mother's death is a key aspect of his character and reveals his philosophical beliefs about the inherent meaninglessness of life.
Throughout the novel, Meursault consistently asserts his belief in the inherent absurdity of life. He does not believe in God or any higher purpose, and instead embraces a philosophy of radical individualism and freedom. Meursault's detachment from traditional societal norms and values allows him to live his life on his own terms and make decisions that are true to his own desires and beliefs.
Despite his detachment from society, Meursault is not completely devoid of emotion. He is capable of feeling and expressing love, as evidenced by his relationship with Marie. However, Meursault's love for Marie is not the traditional, romantic love that is often depicted in literature. Instead, it is a deep, genuine affection that is based on mutual understanding and respect.
Meursault's lack of emotional attachment to traditional societal values and beliefs also makes him a controversial and divisive character. Many readers may find it difficult to relate to Meursault or understand his perspective, as he seems to reject many of the fundamental values that society holds dear. However, this is precisely what makes Meursault such a compelling and thought-provoking character.
In conclusion, Meursault is a complex and enigmatic character who defies traditional conventions and expectations. His detachment from traditional societal norms and values is not a sign of a lack of depth or character, but rather a reflection of his unique philosophical perspective. Despite his controversial nature, Meursault's beliefs and actions challenge readers to consider their own values and beliefs, and to think critically about the meaning of life and death.
Meursault
He is apathetic towards Raymond beating up a woman, like he is with most things in life. Meursault put his mother in a home. Throughout the text, Meursault had remained loyal to his close friend Raymond and was always willing to help him. Although Meursault says he doesn't love her, because to him 'what is love,' he would marry her and care for her, because these ideas are important to Marie. In emotional situations he rather describe the setting or what the person with him is talking about than actually show his feelings. This is why Meursault does not care about family, friends, love or death. And it will be a strong argument for the prosecution if I can't come up with some answers.
The Stranger: Meursault
Find Out How UKEssays. It was this burning, which I couldn't stand anymore, that made me move forward. He goes to the same café every day to eat. Four Raymond beats his mistress and Meursault tells the cops she cheated on Raymond so he can avoid serious trouble. Is it the murdered Arab, whose name is never revealed, or the dead mother, who is rarely mentioned, despite the fact the novel began with her death? He refuses to follow rational rules and morality for a world that does not make sense. He said the truth was that I didn't have a soul and that nothing human, not one of the moral principles that govern men's hearts, was within my reach. These topics permeate both his fictional existence and our own; as readers, applying the idea that every human is in charge of his or her own destiny, is a fresh and innovative idea in a society that preaches conformity over individuality.
Character Analysis Of Meursault In 'Stranger'
Lesson Summary Meursault is not the apathetic monster that the court paints him to be at the end of Camus's novel The Stranger. Such a character-driven writing style is most notably displayed in his 1946 work, The Stranger, a tale of an emotionally-detached man known as Meursault, who lives in French-colonized Algiers during the intermission of the two World Wars. Camus illustrates his critical observation of death by demonstrating it through the main character Meursault, who shows human existence has no logical meaning and people aiming to produce reasons as to why life is significant. He meets with an examining judge, who gets upset when Meursault says he is an atheist. Thesis: In his novel The Stranger, Camus uses motif of death and isolation to show his philosophical viewpoints which includes the theme of the universe being irrational and life being meaningless. When Happy, Biff, and Willy are in the restaurant, and Happy says Willy is not his father to the women, he does not feel bad because he really has never had a relationship with his father. There were about ten in all, and they floated into the blinding light without a sound.
