Albert Camus' The Stranger presents to the reader the character of Meursault who one might describe as an absurd hero. However, the contemporary definition of the absurd as untrue, illogical, or ridiculous is not what is being referred to. Rather, the characteristic of being an absurd hero refers to the acceptance of the Absurd or Absurdist philosophy, a philosophy which requires differentiation from existentialism, which it is often confused with. Meursault’s acceptance of this philosophy is demonstrated through his relation to religion throughout the novel. This philosophy Absurd is similar in some facets to the philosophy of existentialism, though they differ in their conclusions. Camus' philosophy begins with accepting that human beings
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Meursault does so absolutely. This is displayed in a number of ways, namely his focus on the physical world, lack of emotion, and his rejection of ethics and especially religion. Meursault's rejection of religion can be seen in his discussion of marriage with Marie, his rejection of ethics, and through his discussion with the …show more content…
Marriage undoubtedly has very strong religious connections and so by discussing Meursault's relation to marriage, one can further see his own relation to religion. After some time dating Meursault, Marie asks Meursault if he would like to marry her. Meursault, though, does not care one way or the other. Marie points out that marriage is a serious thing, to which Meursault simply responded, "No" (Camus 41-42). By looking at this passage, one can clearly see Meursault's devaluing of religious tradition, rejecting any importance Marie or others, including the Church, would ascribe to it. By doing so, Meursault is devaluing religion as a whole, and is thus showing his disdain for the Church and the institution of marriage. The fact that Meursault, despite not caring about either institution, is willing to marry regardless demonstrates even further what little regard he has for marriage and the
Meursault does so absolutely. This is displayed in a number of ways, namely his focus on the physical world, lack of emotion, and his rejection of ethics and especially religion. Meursault's rejection of religion can be seen in his discussion of marriage with Marie, his rejection of ethics, and through his discussion with the …show more content…
Marriage undoubtedly has very strong religious connections and so by discussing Meursault's relation to marriage, one can further see his own relation to religion. After some time dating Meursault, Marie asks Meursault if he would like to marry her. Meursault, though, does not care one way or the other. Marie points out that marriage is a serious thing, to which Meursault simply responded, "No" (Camus 41-42). By looking at this passage, one can clearly see Meursault's devaluing of religious tradition, rejecting any importance Marie or others, including the Church, would ascribe to it. By doing so, Meursault is devaluing religion as a whole, and is thus showing his disdain for the Church and the institution of marriage. The fact that Meursault, despite not caring about either institution, is willing to marry regardless demonstrates even further what little regard he has for marriage and the