The Stranger

In class, we haven't really discussed the title of Camus' work. Why do you think he chose to title his novel The Stranger? What is the meaning behind it? Who is The Stranger and why might he be considered as such? Think "big picture" on this one before you answer.

Nobody realizes that some people expend tremendous energy merely to be normal.-Albert Camus

 

In Part II of Camu's The Stranger, Meursault is put on trial as much for the murder of the Arab as he is for his deviation from the standard norms of society. His behaviors go against what many believe is standard societal "normalcy". Our whole lives, we are told mixed messages. On one hand, we are told to stand on our own two feet, to be our own person, and not to care what everyone else thinks of us. On the other hand, those that are brave enough to stand out from the crowd and truly not conform to society are treated as outcasts, ridiculed and sometimes this persecution has dire consequences. What does it mean to be "normal"? Who gets to decide? What effect do these mixed messages have on the individual? On society? Think about this and explain your thoughts.

“Apathy is the glove into which evil slips its hand”

One of Meursault's most predominant character traits is  his apathy. He doesn't really care about anything or anybody. He is indiffent to Marie when she expresses her desire to marry and has no qualms about participating in the heinous plot to get revenge on Raymond's girlfrend. He doesn't even seem to care about the death of his own mother. It has been said the the opposite of good is not evil, but apathy. Do you agree with this statement? Is not caring really worse than evil? Use examples from real life as well as the novel to support your point of view. 

CAS...Helping others...Helping yourself...

I know many of you are worrying about the CAS component of your IB diploma. I know it seems that more and more responsibilities are being heaped on your plate. Between homework, jobs and sports; when is there any more time to give? It is believed that performing community service and helping others helps build character and makes you a better person. Do you agree with this? Do you think giving time and helping those in need builds character? If you are helping people because you have to and not because you want to generates the same effects? What do you hope to get out of the CAS portion of your IB experience?