Existentialism as seen through mersault in camus' the stranger

Prasetyo, Ruth Renata (2002) Existentialism as seen through mersault in camus' the stranger. Bachelor thesis, Petra Christian University.

Abstract

The Stranger by Camus has a complexity that deals with worthy values about life: philosophy, psychology and religion. The writer is interested most in the philosophical aspect in The Stranger because knowing that expressing his ideas, Camus has a certain pattern of philosophical thought that is existentialism. It can be found through the characterization of Mersault, the main character in the novel. The writer will analyze his speech and conduct to find the elements of existentialism. She tries to find four elements of existentialism: atheism, freedom of choice, responsibility and anxiety of death. Mersault's speech and conduct show these four elements of existentialism. Finally, Mersault is a person who refuses to believe in God, whatever the risk is, always uses his freedom of choice in his conduct and he responsible for that. It shows that Mersault always sure of himself and he does not need any guide. He does everything according to his own consideration but he also respects other's opinion and decision. In this way, Mersault feels less anxiety and happy with his life even when facing death.

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