Write a Short Note on Meursault’s Realization of the Absurdity of Life.
The Outsider is a notable literary work by Albert Camus. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of The Outsider.
Answer
Write a short note on Meursault’s realization of the absurdity of life.
In “The Outsider” (1942), Meursault’s realization of the absurdity of life is a key moment that defines his character and the novel’s message.
Camus presents the absurdity of life as the idea that life has no inherent meaning and that any attempt to find absolute purpose is futile. He presents Meursault as an existential hero, someone who lives authentically in a world without inherent meaning.
Meursault’s Indifference and Detachment: Throughout the novel, Meursault shows little interest in finding meaning in life. He does not grieve for his mother’s death. Meursault begins the novel with the famous opening line:
“Maman died today. Or yesterday, I don’t know.”
This indifference shocks people because it goes against society’s deep respect for family bonds. He does not pretend to care about love or social expectations and lives according to his immediate physical needs. He views societal pressures on human feelings as absurd.
The Turning Point: Meursault’s turning point comes when he rejects the chaplain’s attempts to give him hope through religion. Instead, he embraces the idea that life is meaningless and finds comfort in this realization. He declares,
I opened myself to the gentle indifference of the world.
By accepting that the universe is indifferent and has no higher purpose, Meursault achieves a sense of peace and freedom.
Ultimately, Meursault’s realization allows him to accept his fate without fear or regret. He concludes that since life has no ultimate meaning, he can live on his terms, even in the face of death. This understanding of life’s absurdity becomes his final triumph over societal expectations.