Camus The Stranger The Myth of Sisyphus and Existentialism

A detailed Summary of Camus The Stranger The Myth of Sisyphus and Existentialism


In two of his greatest works, "The Stranger," and "The Myth of Sisyphus," Albert Camus exposes his readers to the existentialistic parts of philosophy. The existentialism within his works shapes his characters, by determining how they will act and respond to what is going on around them. However, due to the existentialism, the character stands out in a way unique to the characters in that work.

Meursault, the protagonist in "The Stranger," is an insensitive individual. He shows no feelings towards anyone throughout the novel. It is this lack of feeling that strongly reflects the philosophy of existentialism. Meursault does not feel any sensations a normal human would have with members of the opposite sex, nor does anything important seem to interest him. This lack of feeling, Meursault does realize it is a problem, for he states himself, "I explained to him, however, that my nature was that my physical needs often got in the way of my feelings.(pg 65)" Meursault also sees no reason for change in his life. When his boss asked hi


Sisyphus, from "The Myth of Sisyphus," is a very practical person. He is very existentialistic because of his fate. The fate for the rest of his life, roll a rock to the top of a mountain, then stop and watch it roll back past him. Sisyphus watches his fate roll by which is a great example of existentialism.

Meursault is very content with his current life. He is always happy due to the fact that he has no other feelings, so he doesn't have anything to compare to. When the priest asks Meursault if he would like a different life, his response was that he would like one that would be exactly the same as this current one. Work, a home, and a girl is what Meursault has, and he feels nothing more is needed.



Some common words found in the essay are:
Myth Sisyphus, Stranger Meursault, Albert Camus, Paris Meursault, Sisyphus Fate, top mountain, myth sisyphus, rock top mountain, privileged people, philosophy existentialism, life meaningless, lack feeling, rock top,

Approximate Word count = 704
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: English

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