Intro

Meursault is a stranger. He is an alien to the universe. He is a man who is emotionally detached from society, indifferent to the world around him. He does not care about the death of his mother, a proposal from his lover, or even the murder of an Arab. Albert Camus, author of The Stranger, illustrates Meursault as a character who simply does not care. Nevertheless, his uncaring temperament does not make him immune to evolution. In fact, Camus argues that because all humans will ultimately die, all lives are insignificant. As the narrative progressives, Meursault, reflecting Camus’ theory on life, gradually comes to this realization. This progression is effectively revealed through his own narrative. He employs simple sentences consisting of almost childlike vocabulary, with a meticulous attention to detail. Indeed, Meursault’s narration appears simple in the literal form; however, it reveals moments of profound transparency and provides a unique insight of his evolution, concerning the nature of his indifference to himself, society, and life.