The Stranger
Have you ever questioned the purpose of life? Have you ever felt like the world is traveling so fast and you are just standing still? Meursault, the main character in The Stranger, sure does. Albert Camus’ work of fiction follows the course of one man’s life lacking hope and a purpose. The book is set in the North African country of Algeria. The location, including the weather and nearby beach, play a small role throughout the story. The book was originally printed in French; however, it still contains hints of the culture in the spoken vocabulary. Part on of The Stranger establishes the main character’s personality and actions. The first event is the death of Meusault’s mother. Already, the reader becomes suspicious of Meursault. He takes a few days off work and travels to complete arrangements for his mother’s funeral. He turns down viewing the body and doesn’t shed one tear at her funeral.