The Stranger: An Essential Existentialist Classic

Published by Albert Camus on 09/08/202309/08/2023

In Albert Camus’ timeless masterpiece, The Stranger, readers are confronted with the intricate web of existentialist thought that seeks to decipher the meaning of life in an absurd world. As the protagonist, Meursault, navigates through his mundane existence, Camus explores the profound questions that have haunted humanity since time immemorial. From the eternal struggle to make sense of a seemingly senseless reality to the disquieting search for identity and purpose, The Stranger serves as a captivating portal into the complex realm of existentialism. Embark on a journey of introspection and philosophical reflection as we delve into Camus’ seminal work and unravel the enigmatic philosophy that lies within its pages.

What is Existentialism

Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emerged in the 20th century, particularly in Europe. It focuses on the individual’s freedom, responsibility, and unique experiences in a seemingly meaningless and chaotic world. Existentialism explores questions about the meaning of life, existence, and the choices humans make.

Existentialism rejects the idea that there is any predefined essence or purpose to human existence. It argues that individuals are solely responsible for creating their own meaning through their actions and choices. This philosophical perspective emphasizes the importance of personal freedom, individuality, and authenticity.

Existentialist thinkers often grapple with themes such as anxiety, absurdity, authenticity, and the inevitability of death. They question the traditional notions of morality, religion, and societal conventions, encouraging individuals to embrace their own subjective truths and navigate the complexities of existence on their own terms.

Prominent existentialist philosophers include Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Friedrich Nietzsche, Albert Camus, Martin Heidegger, and Søren Kierkegaard.

Why is Existentialism Important to Us

Existentialism is important to us in several ways:

1. Freedom and individual responsibility: Existentialism emphasizes the idea that human beings are fundamentally free and responsible for their own choices and actions. It encourages us to take ownership of our decisions, rather than attributing them to external factors. This philosophy can empower individuals to live authentically and take control of their lives.

2. Search for meaning: Existentialism poses questions about the meaning and purpose of life. It highlights the inherent ambiguity and uncertainty of existence, prompting individuals to contemplate their own values, beliefs, and goals. By engaging with existentialist ideas, one can embark on a personal journey towards discovering their own meaning and purpose in life.

3. Authenticity and self-examination: Existentialist thinkers encourage deep reflection and self-examination. By questioning societal norms and expectations, individuals can become aware of the various external influences that shape their lives. This self-awareness can lead to a more truthful and authentic way of living, as one strives to align their actions and choices with their true values and desires.

4. Embracing anxiety and uncertainty: Existentialism recognizes that anxiety, uncertainty, and the experience of navigating life’s complexities are inevitable aspects of the human condition. Rather than trying to escape or avoid these feelings, existentialism encourages individuals to confront and acknowledge them. By embracing the reality of these emotions, individuals can develop resilience and find meaning even in the face of adversity.

5. Ethics and social engagement: Existentialism underscores the importance of ethical responsibility and social engagement. It emphasizes the need for individuals to consider the consequences of their actions on others and to act in ways that are in line with their values and a sense of fairness. Existentialism promotes individual autonomy and encourages individuals to actively engage in shaping societal structures in a way that aligns with their beliefs.

In summary, existentialism is important to us as it provides a framework for contemplating the meaning of life, encourages personal growth and self-reflection, and emphasizes the importance of individual responsibility and social engagement.

Unlocking Existentialism from The Stranger

The Stranger Introduction

The Stranger” is a philosophical novel written by Albert Camus. The story revolves around Meursault, a young Algerian living in French-colonized Algiers. Meursault’s life takes an abrupt turn when he receives news of his mother’s death. However, instead of exhibiting grief, he demonstrates indifference towards her passing and the funeral proceedings.

Meursault is depicted as an emotionally detached and disengaged individual who remains unaffected by societal norms and expectations. He forms a romantic relationship with Marie, a former co-worker, but even their bond is devoid of emotional depth. Meursault’s life seems to be driven by mundane routines, focusing on trivial experiences and devoid of any greater purpose or meaning.

The narrative takes a darker turn when Meursault finds himself embroiled in a series of events leading to a murder. Through a chance encounter, he crosses paths with a group of Arabs on the beach. Driven by external factors and sensory impressions, Meursault acts impulsively and commits the violent act, leading to his arrest and subsequent trial.

During the trial, the focus shifts from the murder itself to Meursault’s character and indifference towards societal norms. The prosecutor argues that his emotional detachment makes him a threat to society. Meursault’s lack of remorse and unconventional behavior throughout the trial further solidify this perception.

The novel explores themes of existentialism and absurdism. It delves into the struggle of finding inherent meaning in life and the consequences of refusing to conform to societal expectations. Meursault stands as a symbol of individualistic rebellion against the absurdity of existence, challenging the established order and its underlying principles.

In the end, Meursault is condemned to death for his crime, evoking questions about the fairness and reason behind the legal system. He ultimately finds solace in accepting his fate, embracing the insignificance of his actions and the inevitability of his own mortality.

“The Stranger” serves as an existential exploration of the human condition, inviting readers to question the established norms and institutions that govern their lives. It challenges the concept of conformity and poses a poignant reflection on the meaning of existence in a seemingly indifferent world.

Existentialism Methods

In “The Stranger” by Albert Camus, the protagonist Meursault embodies many key principles of existentialism. Some of the existentialism methods mentioned in the book include:

1. Absurdism: Meursault’s worldview is centered around the idea of the Absurd, which refers to the inherent contradiction between the human desire for meaning and the indifferent nature of the universe. Meursault realizes that life is devoid of any objective meaning or purpose, and therefore, he rejects social conventions and societal expectations.

2. Radical Freedom: Existentialism emphasizes the concept of radical freedom, where individuals are responsible for creating their own meaning and defining their existence. Meursault embraces his freedom by refusing to conform to societal norms, such as showing grief at his mother’s funeral or expressing remorse for his actions during his trial.

3. Indifference: Meursault’s apathetic and indifferent attitude towards life and events around him is another existentialist theme. He does not actively seek meaning or purpose but instead accepts life as it comes, responding to events in a detached and emotionless manner.

4. Existential Angst: Meursault experiences existential angst or existential dread, a feeling of anxiety and disorientation that arises from the realization of one’s individual insignificance and the absurdity of existence. He often questions the point of human life and the value of his own actions.

5. Rebellion against societal expectations: Meursault is portrayed as an outsider and a rebel against social norms. He chooses not to conform and rejects the conventional values of society, leading to his alienation from others.

These existentialist methods highlight the themes of existentialism present throughout “The Stranger.” They illustrate Camus’ exploration of the meaninglessness of life, the importance of personal freedom, and the individual’s struggle to find purpose in an indifferent world.

The Stranger Quotes

The Stranger quotes as follows:

1. “I opened myself to the gentle indifference of the world.”

2. “In our society any man who does not weep at his mother’s funeral runs the risk of being sentenced to death.”

3. “Since we’re all going to die, it’s obvious that when and how don’t matter.”

4. “I laid my heart open to the benign indifference of the universe.”

5. “A kind of dumb love, which just sat there, full of a heavy feeling I couldn’t explain.”

6. “I had been right, I was still right, I was always right. I had lived my life one way, and I could just as well have lived it another. I had done this and I hadn’t done that. I hadn’t done this thing but I had done another. And so?”

7. “I had only a little time left and I didn’t want to waste it on God.”

8. “You never know, I’ve lived a long time and I know that life is really Other People, and that as soon as you say ‘everyone’ you mean yourself.”

9. “I had been right, I was still right, I was always right. I had never missed my mark.”

10. “But even when I did brush against reality, I usually reacted with annoyance or boredom.”

More Books About Existentialism

1. How to Live: A Life of Montaigne” by Sarah Bakewell

Combining biography and philosophy, “How to Live” provides an engaging exploration of the life and ideas of Michel de Montaigne. While not directly focused on Existentialism, Bakewell skillfully maneuvers through Montaigne’s introspective essays, which express themes of self-examination, uncertainty, and the search for meaning. This book serves as an excellent primer for those interested in existential thought and its origins.

2. Hopscotch” by Julio Cortázar

Cortázar’s iconic novel is a masterful work weaving together multiple narratives and literary styles. The story follows Horacio Oliveira, as he navigates his relationships, obsessions, and philosophical musings within the chaotic streets of Buenos Aires and Paris. “Hopscotch” delves into existentialist themes of choice, free will, and the search for personal identity, inviting the reader to question conventional narratives and embrace a more unconventional approach to life.

3. The Metamorphosis” by Franz Kafka

Kafka’s surreal novella explores the plight of Gregor Samsa, a man who wakes up one day transformed into a giant bug. Amidst the grotesque and absurd, the story highlights themes of alienation, isolation, and the struggle to find meaning in an inherently absurd world. “The Metamorphosis” serves as a perfect existential allegory, beautifully capturing the human condition in a haunting and introspective manner.

4. The Unbearable Lightness of Being” by Milan Kundera

Set against the backdrop of the Prague Spring in the late 1960s, Kundera’s novel follows the lives of interconnected characters as they grapple with love, freedom, and the weight of existence. Deeply existential in nature, this book explores the complex relationship between choices, responsibilities, and the inescapable consequences that accompany them. Kundera’s prose blends philosophical reflections with personal narratives, creating a thought-provoking examination of human existence.

5. “The Outsider” by Colin Wilson

Inspired by existential thought, Wilson’s “The Outsider” examines the lives of various historical figures who have experienced a deep sense of alienation in society. From Friedrich Nietzsche to Vincent van Gogh, Wilson delves into their lives, delving into the complexities of loners and outsiders who challenge societal norms. By delving into the essence of being an outsider, this book provides valuable insights into the existential themes of authenticity, authenticity, and the pursuit of a meaningful existence.

These five books offer profound insights into the themes and concepts of Existentialism, each in their distinct and thought-provoking ways. From Montaigne’s philosophical introspection to Kafka’s exploration of the absurd, readers will embark on a captivating journey through the complexities of human existence.