The Stranger Change of Mersault

In The Stranger, author Albert Camus contrasts his protagonist Meursault’s expectations to societal expectations. Camus creates a character who initially wants to please society; however, ultimately realizes that his own standards are the only true standards. Meursault’s reflection period in the prison causes him to change from being insecure to resolute in his beliefs. This shift is portrayed through changes in his attachment to friends and changes in his reaction to authority. Meursault’…showed first 75 words of 1083 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1083 total…unison. However, his killing of the Arab shattered this unison. Thus, when he has nothing to lose after the shooting, he actively asserts his beliefs. Meursault’s crystallization of his beliefs ultimately leads him to connect his outward manifestation with his insides. His period in prison, after he kills the Arab, causes him to reevaluate both his treatment of his friends and of authority. He recognizes anything of value can only be determined by himself.