Albert Camus The Stranger

The definition of a perfect life has changed drastically over time. In the 21st century, one is particularly obsessed with relationships, careers and the luxury of one 's homes. Aside from the lavishness, some may encounter issues with discovering themselves. Young people especially, struggle to understand their purpose, leaving them in mini personal crisis. Knowing one’s purpose allows one to live their lives accordingly. Those who don’t know their purpose may feel that their daily lives are ridiculous. Camus’ The Stranger, portrays an inexplicably nonsensical character, Meursault, who winds up in a unanticipated situation. Similar to real life struggles, the character perpetually repeats insignificant actions not accordant to any essence.

Although she is buried in the beginning of the book, it does not stop Meursault and others around him to remember her. During part two of the book, Meursault 's relationship with his mother is scrutinized by the those against him midst his trial. The first chapters of the book introduce Meursault 's mother through those who were able to spend time with her before she died. The first lines of this book, “Maman died today. Or yesterday maybe, I don’t know.” (3), suggest that Meursault was not very close to his mother. These two sentences are the first impressions of Meursault. This point it is where readers can notice something is indeed wrong with him. The disconnection between Meursault and his mother provokes a hatred towards Meursault, especially from the prosecutor. The prosecutor argues against Meursault for his relationship with his mother than for his actual crime. Eventually, the prosecutor completes his goal of condemning Meursault to death. Before dying, Meursault heavily reflect upon his life. Although never showing signs of faith towards any certain religion, he is accused of being the antichrist and is almost forced by the chaplain to rely on god during his last moments. The chaplain tells him “Every man I have known in your position has turned to Him” (116) At the beginning of the book when Madam Meursault is being buried, Meursault is told that she wanted a religious funeral even though Meursault never remembered her as religious. “While not atheist, Maman had never in her life given a thought to religion” (6). The parallel between these two quotes strengthen, to some extent, the chaplains argument. The position the chaplain is speaking of is that of near death. Unlike his mother Meursault chooses to remain without a religion. Meursault 's mother left a big impact on his life due to the way he treated