Write an essay on Albert Camus’ treatment of alienation in “The Outsider.”

Answer

Write an essay on Albert Camus’ treatment of alienation in “The Outsider.” [NU: 2020] Or, write elaborately on Albert Camus’ treatment of alienation in “The Outsider.” [NU: 2017] ★★★

Albert Camus (1913-1960) shows the theme of alienation very deeply in “The Outsider” (1942). The novel is set in Algiers. The hero is Meursault. He is cut off from family, love, friends, society, and even from religion. He lives in a world without meaning. His actions and words make him a stranger to all. His alienation proves Camus’ idea of the absurd.

Alienation from Family: The novel begins with alienation. Meursault gets a telegram from Marengo. It says his mother has died. He says, 

“Mother died today. Or, maybe, yesterday; I can’t be sure.”

From the first line, he shows detachment. At the old age home, the coffin is sealed. The Caretaker asks to open it. Meursault refuses. He smokes and drinks coffee. He does not cry. At the funeral, Thomas Pérez (His Mom’s Friend) nearly faints under the hot sun. Meursault only feels the heat. Later, he says, 

“Mother now was buried, and tomorrow I’d be going back to work as usual.”

His alienation is clear. Society later calls him heartless.

Alienation from Love: Alienation also comes in his relationship with Marie Cardona. The day after the funeral, he swims with her at the beach. They go to the cinema and see a comedy. They sleep together. Meursault says, 

“Marie came that evening and asked me if I’d marry her.” 

Meursault answers coldly, 

“I said I didn’t mind; if she was keen on it, we’d get married.”

Marie is full of life and hope. But Meursault is indifferent. He cannot feel love. His detachment hurts Marie. His alienation in love makes him different from others.

Alienation from Morality: Meursault’s neighbors also show his alienation. Salamano curses and beats his sick dog. But when the dog runs away, he cries. Meursault