Absurdist Philosophy: We are all condemned to die. We await our executions.
- We live in an indifferent universe--unexplainable
- There is no meaning, no certainty, except death
- The individual is free to decide
- Deciding to live (with all five senses) in this "absurd" condition is heroic--happiness
- Searching for meaning or imposing meaning creates false hope and leads to despair
- Each human is responsible for his/her own actions
- Facing the meaninglessness and choosing the live solitary, sensuous lives = freedom
Myth of Sisyphus: Camus reitnerprets the myth as heroic. Sees Sisyphus as happy.
Sisyphus made the gods angry and was condemned to push a boulder up a dill daily and watch if all once he reached the top
The first section of the novel introduces Meursault, a rational, self-centered, emotionally distant protagonist. He observes the world sensuously. Feeling the sun and salt water on his skin, noticing the smell of petrol, the taste of cafe au lait. The syntax reflects the character--short, simple sentences. Action oriented.
Read chapters 1 and 2 with the absurdist philosophy in mind. Watch Meursault. Step into his shoes. Is he responding to life in the same way you are? Why or why not?
Find examples of imposing meaning on events in these first two chapters.
Ex. His boss will say his condolences. Meursault will wear an armband to signify he is in mourning. He will sit vigil because that action is what is expected of him.
