The Outsider’s Response to Life and Death: Analysing Meursault’s Behaviours and Attitudes in Camus’s Novel

Abstract

The Outsider” by Albert Camus has been studies from different perspectives However; the majority have focused on the theories of existentialism and absurdism. This study examines how the protagonist Meursault of Albert Camus’ The Outsider responds to death and life through his behaviours and attitudes. Camus’ novel delves into existentialist and absurdist philosophy making it one of his most significant works. It presents a character that is complex, who challenges the traditional beliefs about life and death and the meaning of existence. The issue examined in this paper is Meursault’s indifference to life events, such as death which conflicts with societal expectations. The purpose of this research is to analyze how life and death affect Meursault’s behaviours and attitudes. Textual analysis were collected through a close reading to the novel focusing on significant passages to illustrate Meursault’s behaviours and attitudes. Using Reflexive Thematic Analysis by Braun & Clarke, themes were generated from the text without imposing external frameworks. This approach is beneficial because it highlights the researcher’s role in interpreting and constructing meaning from data. Some of the main findings are Meursault’s approach to life with indifference, viewing it as a series of sensory experiences rather than a search for meaning; his acceptance of death as an inevitable end that reinforces his detachment from life and calm demeanour; a psychoanalytical reading focused on the ego, superego, and death drive frames Meursault’s attitudes and behaviour as a case study in psychological analysis. His behaviour that aligns with the absurdist beliefs that means it must be constructed in a meaningless world. This study concludes that Meursault’s responses reflect Camus’ philosophical perspective that invites readers to rethink about purpose, emotions and existential freedom.