The Outsider (L'Étranger) - Albert Camus
Title: The Outsider (L'Étranger) Author: Albert Camus Translated from the French by Joseph Laredo Publisher: Penguin Books, London Year published: 2010 119 pages The Outsider (L'Étranger) by Albert Camus is a philosophical novel that delves deeply into themes of alienation, existentialism, and the absurdity of life. The protagonist, Meursault, is a French-Algerian man who lives a life detached from societal norms and emotional connections. The story opens with the death of his mother, an event that Meursault approaches with a striking lack of emotion. His indifference, even during the funeral, becomes a focal point for others’ judgment later in the story. Meursault’s life unfolds in a series of mundane events, marked by his passive approach to existence. He begins a romantic relationship with Marie, a former coworker, yet remains emotionally indifferent to her affection. His friendship with his neighbor, Raymond, further illustrates his detachment, a...