Essay on Camus’ The Stranger (The Outsider): The Gentle Meursault :: Camus Stranger Essays

The Gentle Meursault of Camuss The Stranger (The Outsider) In Albert Camuss The Stranger, Meursault, the protagonist, could be seen as immoral if he were judged on the basis of his actions alone. However, by Camuss use of a introductory person narrative, we begin to realize Meursault as non an immoral man, but simply an indifferent one. Meursault is a symbol of the universe, and so in understanding him we understand that the universe is as well as not ugliness, but instead a place of gentle indifference.At first glance, Meursault could be seen as an evil man. He shows no ruefulness at his mothers funeral, worrying more about the heat. His first reaction to his mothers death is not sadness, it is a matter-of-fact, quiet acceptance of the situation. Maman died today. Or yesterday maybe, I dont know. subsequently on in the story, Meursault kills an Arab on the beach, and his only concern is that he has washed-up the calm, pleasant day he was having. When he is in jail, the mag istrate comes in an effort to save Meursaults soul, but instead of cooperating, Meursault simply confounds the magistrate by refusing to call up in God. Even at his trial, Meursault doesnt show any remorse for having killed the Arab. Based on this evidence alone, how can we not see Meursault as evil?In the novel, we are given a more discharge view of Meursault. The story is told from his point-of-view, which allows us to understand the situation as Meursault perceives it. sounding at the situation in this light, we can see Meursault as not evil, but simply indifferent and detached from life. He doesnt approach to get wrapped up in emotion or relationships, he just takes things as they come, doing whatever is easiest for him. He becomes friends with Raymond and agrees to marry Marie simply be condition he doesnt have a very good reason not to. Seeing the story from Meursaults viewpoint, we understand that even killing the Arab wasnt an act of malice or evil intent. As Meursault puts it, My nature is much(prenominal) that my physical needs often get in the way of my feelings. With this in context, things begin to make more sense. Meursaults seemingly cryptic parameter that he murdered the Arab because of the sun can be taken as truth. Meursault does things that society judges as wrong not because he is evil or wants to appear immoral, but because the sun and heat, symbols for Meursaults emotional state, cause him to become uncomfortable and act inappropriately.