Existentialism is a philosophical theme that permeates Albert Camus' "The Outsider" ("The Stranger"). The novel explores the idea that life lacks inherent meaning and that individuals must navigate a world that is indifferent to their existence. Through the protagonist, Meursault, Camus illustrates the principles of existentialism, including the rejection of traditional values, the confrontation with the absurd, and the quest for personal authenticity.
From the beginning, Meursault embodies existential indifference and detachment. His reaction to his mother's death is devoid of expected emotions:
"Mother died today. Or maybe yesterday, I don’t know".
This opening line highlights Meursault's existential stance—he does not adhere to societal expectations of grief or sorrow. His lack of conventional responses sets the tone for his existential journey, demonstrating his estrangement from the world's prescribed meanings and rituals.
Meursault's relationships further underscore existential themes. His interactions with Marie are marked by emotional indifference and a refusal to ascribe deeper meaning to his feelings. When Marie asks if he loves her, he responds,
"it didn’t mean anything but that I probably didn’t love her".
This blunt, unromantic answer reveals Meursault's rejection of societal norms and conventions surrounding love and relationships. He does not seek to impose false significance on his actions or emotions, aligning with existentialist principles of authenticity and honesty.
The pivotal event of the novel, the murder of the Arab man, exemplifies Meursault's confrontation with the absurd. The act is described in terms of physical sensations rather than moral reasoning:
"The sun was starting to burn my cheeks, and I could feel drops of sweat gathering in my eyebrows. This is the moment when everything began to reel".
The murder appears almost accidental, driven by the oppressive heat and blinding sunlight, underscoring the absurdity and irrationality of human actions. This moment encapsulates the existential belief that life is unpredictable and lacks inherent rationality or purpose.
Meursault's trial serves as a critique of society's attempts to impose meaning and order on his life. The legal proceedings focus on his character rather than the crime, highlighting his failure to conform to societal expectations. The prosecutor condemns him, saying,
"I accuse this man of burying his mother with crime in his heart".
This statement reveals society's discomfort with Meursault's existential authenticity—his refusal to feign emotions or adhere to moral norms. The trial becomes a symbol of society's futile attempts to impose meaning on an absurd existence.
In prison, Meursault's reflections on life and death crystallize his existential awakening. He recognizes the absurdity of seeking meaning in a meaningless world and comes to terms with the indifference of the universe. He finds a sense of peace in this realization;
"I opened myself to the gentle indifference of the world".
This acceptance of the absurd reflects the existential idea that one must confront the lack of inherent meaning in life and embrace it without resorting to false hopes or illusions.
Ultimately, Meursault's journey in "The Outsider" embodies existentialist themes, from his rejection of societal norms to his confrontation with the absurd and his quest for personal authenticity. The novel challenges readers to consider the implications of living in a world devoid of inherent meaning and to find their own path to authenticity and freedom. Through Meursault's experiences, Camus illustrates the existential struggle to live authentically in an indifferent and irrational world, encouraging a deeper understanding of the human condition and the search for existential truth.