Existentialism is a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence and freedom. The diversity of positions associated with existentialism and its authors limits the possibility of a single, adequate definition. Still, certain themes common to virtually all existential writings can be identified. One of these themes reflected in Albert Camus’ The Stranger emphasizes concrete individual existence and, consequently, individual freedom and choice. Consider this well as you read the novel.

Consider, also, these ideas and questions. These questions and thoughtful responses will be vital to your success in the fall.

Meursault, the hero or protagonist of the narrative, is the driving force behind Camus' examination of the Absurd. He, like the author, does not believe in God and comes to the realization that one must struggle against and with the Absurd in order to create meaning in a meaningless world. He lives an indifferent life through much of the story, reveling in physical impulses that make him happy. Following the climax at the beach, “he who does not judge becomes the judged as he is indicted for the crime of not giving into society's code of morals or sense of fate and the divine.”

01What does the reference to “a soldier” tell you about the time period of the story?

02Why did Meursault visit his mother so infrequently in the nursing home?

03Whom does Meursault meet the day after his mother is buried?

04Detail a bit of Meursault's Sunday. What does this tell you about his personality?

05Explain Meursault’s compulsion to wash his hands.

06Who is Salamano? Explain his relationship with his pet.

07What does Meursault do for Raymond? Are they now pals?

08How does Meursault respond to Marie's question about love?

09Explain any significance or intrigue about Salamano and his dog?

10Based on Meursault's beliefs, what do you surmise Camus believed about marriage?

11Salamano’s loss brings out his humanitarianism. Explain and provide an example.

12Describe the initial impact the beach has on Meursault.

13If you knew nothing of existential philosophy and had to extrapolate meaning from Meursault’s meeting with the lone Arab, how would you define or explain existentialism?

14"And each successive shot was another loud, fateful rap on the door of my undoing."

"It was like knocking four quick times on the door of unhappiness."

Since Camus wrote in French, various translations exist. How do these two different translations affect your interpretation of Meursault's fate and of existential philosophy?

15Meursault admits that the physical determines the emotional. Do you concur?

16List some of the "prisoner's thoughts" Meursault has.

17What item was more difficult for Meursault to lose than his freedom? Explain.

18Describe Meursault’s first impression of the jury.

19Name a few specific details about the Algerian judicial system.

20As the trial begins, what is the focus of Meursault's "crime"?

21What are Meursault's thoughts as the prosecutor and defender speak of him?

22Describe Meursault's reaction to his sentence.

23When Meursault’s situation finally "sinks in," what are the two things about which he always thinks?

24Does any truth strike you from Meursault's cathartic rant at the priest?

25List any final thoughts, questions, comments, concerns, intrigues, frustrations…

Benjamin Hoff’sThe Tao of Pooh

As you read Hoff’s fascinating treatise, jot down ideas and questions you have about the ancient Eastern philosophy, Taoism. Note some interesting and relevant factors about each of the tenets or beliefs listed below. Also note how Milne’s characters reflect or reject Taoist principles.

  • Trust your inner nature
  • Face your limitations
  • Empty your mind
  • Live simply
  • Something is nothing
  • Be an uncarved block
  • Achievement is foolish
  • Live in harmony with nature

Which belief do you most identify with personally? Explain.

Which tenet can you simply not "get your head around"? Explain

In preparation for our studies in the fall, please read this first passage from the Tao Te Ching.

The Tao that can be told
is not the eternal Tao
The name that can be named
is not the eternal Name.
The unnamable is the eternally real.
Naming is the origin
of all particular things.
Free from desire, you realize the mystery.
Caught in desire, you see only the manifestations.
Yet mystery and manifestations
arise from the same source.
This source is called darkness.Now that’s something
to think about while you
Darkness within darkness. soak up the SUN 
The gateway to all understanding.