Existentialism throughout the works of Camus

A detailed Summary of Existentialism throughout the works of Camus


Camus' "The Myth of Sisyphus" provides the philosophical basis for his additional novel, "The Stranger." The two main characters of the novels both support Camus' beliefs of existentialism. According to this philosophy, existence is emphasized, while abstract ideas are disregarded. It suggests that the meaning of life cannot be defined by human reason and that an individual must live solely based on what is known and discard anything that is not entirely certain. Through their inevitable fate, disrespect, assertion of freedom and choice, and indifference towards society, the reader can come to see a philosophical parallel between this mythological figure and modern freeloader.

The existentialist person must live solely based on what is known and discard anything that is not entirely certain. This is shown by both characters through their understanding of fate. Sisyphus is sentenced to ceaselessly rolling a rock to the top of a mountain only to watch the rock's decent. Ins


Both Sisyphus and Meursault show a lack of respect towards their society. This disrespectful behavior of Sisyphus and Meursault may be justified by their yearn for freedom and choice. Sisyphus is accused of "a certain levity" toward the gods. He steals their secrets, ignores their orders, and all together shows no honor or obedience. This same attitude towards the society can be further explained in "The Stranger." Meursault forges a letter for his friend, Raymond, who is abusing a young lady. Meursault also sleeps with a woman the day after his mother's funeral. Not knowingly, he shows no respect to his society and thinks mainly of his own actions. Both Meursault and Sisyphus hold true the philosophy of Camus by searching for freedom during their existence.

Meursault is indifferent to many aspects of his life. When asked by Marie, his girlfriend, to marry her, he says that it would not matter if he did or not. Meursault is unable to express love verbally to Marie,

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 665
Approximate Pages = 3 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: Novels

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