Criticism Of Existentialism In The Stranger By Albert Camus

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Albert Camus, a French author, composed widely renowned pieces of literature in which contributed to the rise of the absurdist philosophy, however, he often was associated as a proponent of existentialism. Published in 1942, “The Stranger” incorporates the absurdist perspective on humankind; Camus theorizes the meaninglessness of the surrounding world as absurd. The ridicule Camus introduces to societal aspects connotes his influential philosophy he establishes in the development of his characters. Mocking societal conformity because it stifles one’s growth regarding individualism reveals Camus’ existentialistic roots through both the literal and figurative imprisonment in the novel.
Camus criticizes the expectations of ‘love’ through repetitively establishing Mersault’s apathetic attitude towards Marie. When questioned about the emotional attachment the couple shares, Mersault, with absolute honesty as to not appear tactful, “told her it didn’t mean anything but that I didn’t think so” (Camus 35). Mersault expresses his characteristic indifference through the apathy suggested by the diction; the introduction of dark humor in the protagonist’s emotions conveys the ironic and pointless absurdity of human existence as well as providing comic relief. By establishing the concept of the meaninglessness of love, Mersault’s ignorance is reflected through his honesty. The apathetic tone understates Marie’s question in a condescending manner while further revealing his true persona. Often referred to as an important ceremony, Mersault disregards marriage as an inconvenience portraying certain aspects of existentialism through the rejection of societal customs. In addition, after being continually pestered about his emotional status with ...

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...a character shift through unearthing the reality of fate; by refuting the unjust inequality of society as pointless due to the inescapability, he establishes his detachment from appraisal whilst combating societal standards of judgment due to status one possesses.
Confronting the conventional values of society through the alteration of Mersault’s perspective, Camus influences existentialistic ideologies that illuminate the emotional growth while mocking conformists. His attempt to escape the compelling authority of society and its disciples, Camus introduces antagonists that will continually combat the bloom of Mersault’s character. Exemplifying his freedom by breaking the boundaries of societal expectations through Mersault’s epiphany, despite his condemnation of those brainwashed, Mersault exhibits his superiority over them all while exclaiming equality with them.

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