Why Is Meursault Considered An Outsider

The title of this novel reflects the personality of the main character, Meursault; he is not a literal stranger but is one in a metaphorical sense. His actions and behaviors are seen as absurd and even threatening towards society and, therefore, he is seen as a “stranger”. Meursault embodies the theme of “detachment” and “ indifference”, and his way of life is not compatible with the common, human customs of society, and for this, he must be punished by the rest of civilization.
Throughout the book, we see why Meursault is considered an outsider, an outcast. He does not cry at his mother’s funeral like any other compassionate human being would and does not show any ambition or motivation. When being offered a job promotion, Meursault simply brushes away the offer, and tells his boss he has no desire to strive for greater success and is content with his mundane way of living. This, of course, bewilders his boss and causes him to throw a fit of anger. Meursault is not only mentally and emotionally isolated from others, he is also spiritually isolated from them: he is an atheist, meaning he lacks the belief of a god. This perplexes others as they are astonished by the thought of a man that firmly rejects religion. His unique behavior and way of thinking is a mystery, and the common
Meursault stood his ground and told them that how useless religion is and that he is content with his atheistic way of living. Meursault could have made the decision to adopt the Christian beliefs and try to find peace through God, but eventually, because of his own personality, he would have seen the absurdity in his actions and return to atheism. Doing this would have prevented society from influencing him into adopting the common, human beliefs that they are trying to place upon