“Nihilism and Religion: Exploring Albert Camus’ ‘The Stranger'”
Nihilism and Religion: Exploring Albert Camus’ ‘The Stranger’
Introduction
The intricate relationship between nihilism and religion has long been a focal point of philosophical inquiry, particularly in the context of existentialist thought. Albert Camus’ novel “The Stranger” serves as a profound exploration of these themes through the life of its protagonist, Meursault. This report aims to dissect the ways in which Camus portrays nihilism, the absence of inherent meaning in life, and its interplay with religious beliefs, particularly in the context of societal expectations and moral constructs. By analyzing key elements of the text, this paper will argue that while Meursault embodies a nihilistic perspective, Camus ultimately critiques both nihilism and the constraints of traditional religious morality, suggesting a path toward personal authenticity in the face of an indifferent universe.
Main Body
In “The Stranger,” Meursault’s character embodies the principles of nihilism as he navigates a world devoid of objective meaning. His indifference towards life events, such as his mother’s death and his relationship with Mari