Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emerged in the 20th century, focusing on the individual's experience of freedom and responsibility in a seemingly meaningless and absurd world. One novel that exemplifies the tenets of existentialism is "The Stranger" by Albert Camus.
The main character in "The Stranger," Meursault, is a young man who lives in Algiers and works as a clerk. He is described as emotionally detached and indifferent to the people and events around him. When his mother dies, he does not display any signs of grief or sadness, and when he is later accused of murder, he shows no remorse or guilt.
Meursault's detachment and lack of emotion can be seen as a reflection of his existentialist beliefs. Existentialists believe that individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning in life, and that this meaning is subjective and personal. Meursault's detachment from the expectations and emotions of society can be seen as a rejection of the prescribed meaning of life that is imposed upon him.
In "The Stranger," Camus also explores the concept of absurdity, which is central to existentialist philosophy. Absurdity refers to the inherent meaninglessness of life, and the fact that individuals must confront this meaninglessness head on. Meursault's trial and execution can be seen as an example of this absurdity, as he is punished for a crime that he does not feel guilty about, and that seems to have no real significance in the grand scheme of things.
Another key aspect of existentialism is the concept of freedom and choice. Existentialists believe that individuals have the freedom to make their own choices and shape their own lives, and that this freedom can be both a source of joy and a burden. Meursault's choices throughout "The Stranger" reflect this belief, as he makes decisions that go against societal norms and expectations, and ultimately pays the price for his freedom.
In conclusion, "The Stranger" by Albert Camus is a prime example of existentialist philosophy, as it explores themes of meaninglessness, absurdity, and freedom in the context of an individual's experience. Through the character of Meursault, Camus illustrates the challenges and responsibilities that come with living in a seemingly meaningless world, and the importance of creating one's own meaning and purpose in life.
Existential Symbolism in The Stranger by Albert Camus Free Essay Sample on opportunities.alumdev.columbia.edu
The protagonist, Meursault, is a perfect example of an existential hero. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys thinking after reading a book. Following religious rules within a religion is not what true faith is. Where do we come from? In his words, he seemed to care more about the time of death instead of the fact that he lost his mother. We are provided with abject conditions but we, ultimately, get to define how we respond. Through this first person narrative, we experience his viewpoint on life and the acceleration of its meaning Outline For The Stranger By Camus Essay 704 Words 3 Pages I. Existentialists believe that humans must create their own meaning in life, as there is no inherent meaning in the universe.
Existentialism In The Stranger Essay on Albert Camus, The Stranger
It can be assumed that the individual came to terms with the reality of the world through that existentialism was found. Lack of rationality in a world filled with events occurring spontaneously existentialism can be perceived as the basic irrational structure to an individual? The heat is very uncomfortable for him, because he mentions it many times. From an existentialist view, to know the truths of science is not enough to understand what exactly a human being is. Nihilism In Holden Caulfield 2595 Words 11 Pages Meursault constantly has varying thoughts dancing around his mind, one of which is the environment. Society believes this is unacceptable, and by refusing to conform he must pay the price. In moments of fear, people are able to apply existentialist thought, for it is through fear in which people decide to act. However, his attitude towards the passing of his mother was quite peculiar, rather than being grief stricken by the telegram he received, he seemed to not feel much towards the subject.
Existentialism In Albert Camus' The Stranger: [Essay Example], 1544 words GradesFixer
Existentialism was a time in America where some people emphasized the existence of the individual as a responsible and free agent. At that point, what would disturb my train of thought was the terrifying leap I would feel my heart take at the idea of having twenty more years of life ahead of me. Meursault sees the outcome as inevitable. Facing such voids, acceptance is our last call: i. In this passage, Meursault comes to a dramatic realization of who he is through an existential epiphany, and with thorough analysis the overall significance of the passage to the story is revealed. These themes are existence which is the awareness of our choices, and passion which are psychological feelings that we understand before thinking kicks in. In the second half, it is mainly of his self-realization about society and life, which I feel, could have been approached another way by the author, like being shortened.
Albert Camus The Stranger: Existentialism and Absurdism Compare and Contrast Essay Example
Although I primarily consider myself a writer instead of a philosopher and I deny being an existentialist, the philosophy I most agree with is indeed existentialism. If one makes a decision, he or she must follow through. However, Meursault does not see any problem with his actions; to him, it was simply a matter of convenience and personal preference. Existentialism and its brother philosophy Absurdist are philosophies that emphasize the uniqueness and isolation of the individual in a hostile and indifferent world, and stress the fact the universe has no discernible purpose. During a trip with Raymond and Marie, Meursault shoots the Arab, the brother of the mistress that cheated on Raymond, and is imprisoned.
