Free College Essays - Indifference in The Stranger by Albert Camus :: The Stranger The Outsider

In deviation in CamusThe Stranger (The Outsider) Albert Camus novel, The Stranger, examines what happens to a passive man when mixed in a murder. During the trial of the principal(prenominal) character, Meursault, the prosecutor examines Meursaults normal behavior as callous and cold. In order for the prosecutor to have a case in the readers mind, Camus must create the past that the trial calls for. Camus shows a passive man, and the way that he deals with normal life occurrences. Camus must create a portrait of indifference. When Meursault is talking to Raymond Sintes, a neighbor of his, Raymond tells his tales of violence and asks Meursault for advice. Meursault depends withdrawn during his time with Raymond. Raymond had actually asked Meursault into his room so that he may ask Meursaults opinion because I was a man, I knew about things, I could help him out, and then wed be pals. (Camus, 29) Meursault remains quiet in the conversation, but eventually does speak up I didnt say anything, and he asked me once more if I wanted to be pals. I said it was fine with me he seemed pleased. (Camus, 29) It really made no difference to Meursault if he was stated as a friend of Raymonds or not. The way that Meursault does not contribute to the conversation and that it is just fine with him to be friends creates an trope of indifference. This image continues to grow as Raymond continues to talk to Meursault. Raymond goes on to tell of his problems with women, and Meursault still remains silent. After his Raymonds confessions are over he once again thanks Meursault for being a pal I didnt mind being his pal, and he seemed set on it. (Camus, 33) Once again, Meursaults attitude makes it seem that he doesnt really care if he is Raymonds pal. It has no effect of him, but it will help out Raymond, so hell be his pal. When Meursault is asked to deal with serious relationship questions and issues, he shows his indifference again. Because Meursault becomes romantically invol ved with Marie, she eventually asks him if he loves her, I told her it didnt mean anything but that I didnt think so. (Camus, 35) This seems to be a very cold response to a question that is taken seriously, but M was telling the truth. It didnt really motion to him.