Albert Camus: Philosophy and Literature
Introduction
Albert Camus is one of the major thinkers of 20th-century philosophy and literature. One of the main themes of his philosophy is established through his idea of the absurd — the futility of human existence and the perpetual quest for finding meaning in life. Apart from absurdism, Camus also explores the notion of rebellion and incorporates elements of existentialism to examine the moral intricacies and dilemmas of human existence. His major works include The Myth of Sisyphus, The Stranger, and The Plague, which not only demonstrate his literary genius but also have significant philosophical value. Through these literary masterpieces and philosophical ideas, Albert Camus invites reflection on existential questions while making a profound contribution to modern philosophy and literature.
The Absurd Condition
The most significant concept associated with Albert Camus is the absurd, which refers to the violent clash between the eternal human aspiration to discover some meaning in their existence and the absence of such meaning in the universe. The absurd condition is an inevitable result of the contradiction between humanity’s desire for clear reasoning and logic and the chaotic world, which has no truth or meaning in the final analysis. According to Camus, humans confront the absurd condition, as in their existence, the universe does not provide the concepts that humans search for (Karpouzos, 2024). In The Myth of Sisyphus, he illustrates how the hope of the extraordinary, the acceptance of contradictions, and the absurdity of life can only be embraced instead of despair, and outlines the implications of these ideas reflected in the life philosophy that one should live one’s life to the fullest (Mammadova, 2024). By clarifying the absurd condition, Camus provides readers with the unique opportunity to experience it, find their own meaning within the absurd, and, thus, gain freedom (Karpouzos, 2024).
Moreover, through his philosophy throughout his works, Camus also makes the concept of the absurd condition accessible to people. By explaining through his philosophical theories, people are given the opportunity to perceive what the absurd condition represents in the human condition. It is where, as Camus recognised as people’s understanding, the absurd is born out of the human confrontation with the solely indifferent universe. He also stated that the absurd arises from the conflict between humanity’s desire for meaning and the universe’s inherent meaninglessness. According to his perspective, people can gain a new understanding of it, where they can see they were bound to their uniquely human condition. A veil that obscures the truth about the absurd condition multiplies the questions about the importance of a meaning outside my condition (Onwuatuegwu & Arinze, 2020), which is, indeed, which can be answered with a No through certain perspectives. As in, In The Myth of Sisyphus, Camus exposes the reality that the absurd is a unique human life condition! Through his book, people will profoundly understand that absurd acceptance is another step to gaining freedom and an authentic life. He explains the notion of absurd condition as a philosophy of thought where people can construct their own meaning using the absurd and live authentically through their subjective engagement, namely, ‘we can live even though we don’t know why we live’!
Furthermore, the absurd significantly shapes the themes and characters in Camus’s works, forming an essential pillar of his unique literary approach. Camus’s concept of the absurd influences the depiction of his characters, who embody the struggle with absurdity. For instance, in The Stranger (Mammadova, 2024), the central figure displays indifference to societal morals, and the absurd nature of the course of events leading up to his execution highlights the human condition’s disconnection between the inherent drive to seek meaning and the world’s indifferent response. As such, the themes presented in the narrative strengthen the nature of absurdity, as the characters function without an evident goal, similar to the ideas proposed in the essays on which his philosophical writings are built. Most importantly, the distinctive features of Camus’s artistic style involve the synthesis of beauty and philosophic thought (Döring & Winther, 2022). In this case, his integration of the philosophical motif with literary devices allows for the enhancement of the artistic perception of the given theme beyond the work’s content. Consequently, Camus succeeds in translating the abstract features of philosophy into literary forms, encouraging the audience to confront directly his absurd theories.
The Artist in Exile
The experience of being both an artist and an exile shaped the outlook of Albert Camus significantly. He was exiled in different ways, beginning from his separation from his Algerian origins and during his time in WWII. He wove the ideas of separation and belonging into his writings, and his alienation became aligned with his view of the absurd, which made being an exile a creative opportunity (Hawkins, 2024). Exile was not only physical but also spiritual and existential, and that is how it had manifested in his works through his protagonists, who often experience their alienation from their surroundings, particularly in feelings of attachment and detachment. The struggle of the characters presented by Camus was a reflection of the complexities of living in a world divided by contradiction, like his own world.
Furthermore, his displacement and exile provided him with substantial themes to explore in terms of belonging and alienation. Living in a constant state of geographical and existential alienation from his homeland in Algeria and then in France, in times of historically significant upheaval, demanded that Camus reflect his dislocation in this artistic and literary examination of estrangement. Being raised in Mediterranean North Africa, he had at his disposal vast literary material and heritage, and contrasting realities, where, on one hand, life was represented by the prominence of nature and a flourishing environment, while on the other hand, the ideas of existentialism prompted estrangement and alienation (Sharpe, 2021). The exile as his existential experience shapes the features of his narratives, often somber, while philosophically it emphasizes his inquiry into the absurdity of human existence. Characters of his novels experience their estrangement, and their sense of otherness reveals the inherent duality of conflict of belonging everywhere, which not only enriches his works but profoundly defines a characteristic of his philosophical and literary legacy.
Revolt and Rebellion
Camus’s philosophy of revolt is intricately connected to the absurd. For Camus, revolt is a necessary reaction to humanity’s encounter with an absurd universe, as the recognition of its absurdity does not justify despair but revolt, which is defiance against the absurd and represents a conscious affirmation of life (Hayden, 2019). Revolt, as Camus understands it, is not based on nihilism but on a principle that is rooted in humanity’s aspiration for dignity and justice and for upholding human values in a universe that is indifferent to them. He distinguishes between personal revolt and the revolutions in history that are marked by dogmatism and eventually lead to totalitarianism, destroying the balance of justice and freedom (Tabensky, 2020). Camus expresses moral outrage in his reflections on revolt and insists on a philosophy of revolt that balances the promotion of personal freedom with the demand for social justice and responsibility. It is with this vision of revolt in mind that he envisions a measured yet profound revolt against the absurd realities of existence.
Likewise, Albert Camus’s works greatly emphasize rebellion as a vital topic, contributing to his comprehensive treatment of human value and defiance. Through The Fall and other creations, Camus depicts rebellion as a thoughtful reaction to avoid chaotic disruption in the presence of existential dilemmas, encouraging readers to reconsider their perceptions regarding defiance (Karpouzos, 2024). The characters he presents often navigate the tension between acceptance and fulfilment of societal expectations, depicting rebellion as a complex act of humanity honored in response to pressing struggles, instead of a simple rejection of power. Camus differentiates between existential ideals and political action; hence, he addresses rebellion as an element that requires a solid framework comprising morality and ethical principles, allowing one to demonstrate respect for the values embraced by humans. Defining rebellion in the narratives he creates, Camus aims to construct a unique perspective for understanding traditional definitions of power and moral values, striving to provoke reconsideration of rebellion that is consistent with humanity and ethical limits.
Mediterranean Thought
Remarkably, Camus’s roots in the Mediterranean environment greatly shaped his philosophy. This was the foundation of his literary and philosophical ideas of absurdism and existentialism. His native North Africa was a sunny and vibrant area, but with a harsh climate. There, he developed his appreciation of nature, which he cherished and depicted in the vivid nature portrayed in his literary works (Sharpe, 2021). With that, the geographical area was central to his perception of paradoxes inherent in human existence — for him, the Mediterranean culture was characterized by beauty and grace, along with indifference and cruelty. The contrasting light and shadow, joy and sadness, and happiness and loneliness, with which the Mediterranean region was endowed, enabled Camus to contemplate the paradoxes of existence and to develop a life-sustaining attitude that could embrace them all without turning into ultimate hopelessness. In this regard, through his literary and philosophical narratives, Camus could deeply incorporate the Mediterranean spirit by weaving it into his understanding of individual freedom and authenticity. Hence, his worldview embraced the contrasts of life, celebrating its richness at the same time.
Moreover, apart from the absurd and rebellion, Camus also presented the elements of Mediterranean philosophy in his literary masterpieces. The Mediterranean philosophy depicted in his literary works reveals the author’s deep affinity for nature, light, and harmony. The landscapes of North Africa, featured in his writings, present the contrasts between light and darkness, referring to the two-fold nature of human existence (Döring & Winther, 2022). The narrative emphasizes the past and the future (as in the Mediterranean landscape), favoring the present and putting forward the argument of its own. The calmness and indifference of nature and its elements, as expressed in his philosophy, are reflected in the values of his literary work — balance and moderation. This becomes an all-encompassing philosophy in the modern world, focusing one’s standards on the present rather than the past and future. In this regard, the Mediterranean philosophy provides a metaphorical image that can hold meaning in a meaningless world.
Camus and Existentialism
Albert Camus is commonly classified as an existentialist philosopher. However, Camus notably distanced himself from the existentialist movement, especially that of his fellow philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre. The principle of existentialism was at odds with one of Camus’s fundamental ideas, which was that existence precedes essence. This was the main idea of Sartre’s philosophy (Mammadova, 2024). Sartre embraced the existential angst that emerged in a meaningless and indifferent universe; for him, the absurd was only a way to create meaning in life, while for Camus, the absurd was a revelation of inherent meaninglessness, which requires that we live intentionally. Camus opposed the existential despair found throughout Sartre’s philosophy; he instead offered a philosophy of authentic engagement through awareness of the absurd and the individual’s resulting freedom. By deviating from existentialism, Camus established a unique philosophy that shared ideas with existentialism but was distinct in its framework of thought by focusing on the principles of acceptance and rebellion, as opposed to the premise of self-determination.
On the other hand, the critique of the existentialist dimension made by Camus demonstrates his focus on the absurd and the limits reason should have. He asserts that the quest for existential meaning and essence often overlooks the absurd reality of human existence, where life has no meaning and reason cannot comprehend everything. Thus, he is known for his philosophy of absurdism, which centers on the idea that people should not seek meaning in an indifferent universe. He openly opposes the existentialists’ view that any meaning, rationality, or reason should be sought in an indifferent reality (Arinze & Onwuatuegwu, 2020). Camus makes it clear that desiring anything such as that cannot be fulfilled and results in the opposite. His critique is aimed at creating awareness of the pitfalls that existential philosophy presents as he perceives irrational, yet certain truths that assert themselves and seek to go beyond absurdism, encroach further on the possibility of existing fully authentically. By offering readers a philosophy that prioritizes lived experience and authenticity above any imposed rationality, he provides them with an alternative that portrays human experience in all its richness and depth. He argues that this is because, regardless of the rationality one may perceive in adopting them, reason diminishes all (and everything else) experience.
Politics, Justice, and Morality
Now, through the political philosophy of Albert Camus, we can gain such an in-depth view of his philosophy on politics, justice, and morality. It is worth mentioning that he expressed his commitment to human rights and ethical life through his works and writings. He believed that justice was an essential part of human dignity and should be upheld amid political oppression and dogmatism. Camus stressed absolute moral responsibility in politics, and he believed that there were clear moral constraints on human behavior. Every single thing should be evaluated according to whether it is humane or not. It reflects the idea that ethics and politics should be integrated, and his works and writings conveyed this vision throughout his life. We could summarise that such a vision of justice was to be respected under the most absurd conditions, and it embodied an ethical position where the principles took precedence over dogmatism and violence.
Moreover, the literary works of Albert Camus are also closely related to the artist’s commitment to justice, as the major issues addressed in his writings reflect both an ongoing political exploration and philosophical considerations. His writing targets dogmatic systems and oppression, embodying his view of moderation and humanity as a remedy against totalitarianism and its criminal excesses (Tabensky, 2020). The author addressed both ongoing wars and his perception of right and wrong through the use of allegorical interpretation. In The Plague, the author explores fascism’s downfall while unfurling a narrative about the war’s necessity of combating indifference. However, instead of tackling politics directly, he asserts a code of ethics for his characters, who eschew violent revolutions because they manipulate people and places, rendering them unsuitable for rebellion that should be rooted in moral outrage and human dignity instead (Tabensky, 2020). In this context, the author tackles not just issues of injustice but also presents his political philosophy as the underlying current of the intersection of literature and politics, showing us the interdependence of artistry and his political ideals.
Literary Technique and Style
The narrative style of Albert Camus is marked by its minimalist approach. The symbolism and use of plain style express his existential ideas. The symbols effectively replace any ornate style. The use of simple and precise prose enables the clear expression of the absurdity of human life, according to his ideals (Hawkins, 2024). The meaning is etched as a void in the face of an indifferent universe. The sun’s presence in The Stranger serves as a symbol that is both utilized and depicted as oppressive, revealing the profound lack of meaning in life, even discomfort, and the protagonist’s disoriented, ordinary life. His artful, simple stories expose profound meaning to the readers, combining themes and symbols.
Furthermore, the stylistic elements employed by Camus profoundly affect readers’ responses to his themes. One clear example can be found in his writing style, which is dispassionate and descriptive. In The Stranger, the author adopts unemotional prose, which provides the readers insight into the absurdity of human life and its meaninglessness. The simplicity and sparseness of details in this work heighten the effect of the elements on Camus’s theme since he deliberately avoids all ornamental flourishes and background elements of the narrative. Another example of the author’s stylistic approach can be examined with the help of natural imagery, especially the sun in the novel. The sun can represent the indifferent nature of the universe toward humanity. Instead of being a comforting companion, it oppressively fills the narrative with discomfort. As a result, the readers become aware of the protagonist’s inner turmoil. In addressing the elements discussed, there is no doubt that he has a meticulous attention to word choice, diction, and tone. Not only does this present a clear view of existentialism, but it also engages readers’ responses to overt philosophical themes. As a result, they can perceive the balance between the narrative and philosophical elements.
The Myth of Sisyphus and The Stranger
Albert Camus’s essay The Myth of Sisyphus thoroughly investigates the consequences of a meaningless universe, where the absurd becomes an essential human condition. The author identifies the absurd condition with Sisyphus, a figure from Greek mythology, destined to an infinitely repetitive and futile task, which acts as a metaphor for human activity that continues in the face of absurdity. In line with Camus’s ideas, his novel The Stranger exemplifies the absurd condition, where the main character, Meursault, experiences alienation and judgment through his indifference and existential consciousness, which is opposed to accepted human experiences and behavior (Onwuatuegwu & Arinze, 2020). The ideas presented in both works establish Camus’s vision of adaptability to the absurdity as the only way to achieve concealed personal liberation, which turns despair within the absurdity into the redefinition of existence. Camus’s combination of narrative and philosophical prose encourages readers to reconsider the absurd and fosters individuality in the framework of ambiguous existence.
Along with The Myth of Sisyphus and The Stranger, other works have explored the absurdity of life and existential philosophy profoundly through different plots and settings. In this work, Camus has encouraged and informed the readers that the absurdity would only empower the person if one has understood the nature and challenges of life. The work is the exploration of the struggle of humanity with the absurd and indifferent universe. The basic philosophy presented in the work is that if people can comprehend life, it can empower people significantly. Likewise, The Stranger has portrayed the character of Meursault, who was completely detached and indifferent to the surrounding people. Camus sought to present the absurd through the character who has accepted the absurdity of existence (Döring & Winther, 2022). Although people were expecting some response from the character, his detached attitude challenged the expectations and demands of society. Thus, the character provokes the thought that people can either conform to societal expectations or accept the absurdity of existence, remaining indifferent to those expectations. Camus, through the meaningful plots of these works, primarily explores the human condition in the face of an indifferent universe.
The fundamental philosophy expounded in the work is that if individuals can comprehend the nature of existence, it can significantly enhance human agency. Likewise, The Stranger has depicted the character of Meursault, who was profoundly alienated and oblivious to those around him. Camus endeavored to illustrate existentialism through the character who has embraced the absurdity of existence (Döring & Winther, 2022). Although society anticipated a certain reaction from the character, his detached demeanor challenged the expectations and demands of society. Thus, the character has stimulated reflection that individuals act according to their own desires or merely acknowledge the absurdity of existence and remain indifferent to societal expectations. Camus, through the profound plots of these works, has presented readers with the somber aspects of human life while suggesting that endeavoring to comprehend the absurdity of existence will be clearer and liberating. It would be more liberating for both authors and readers to embrace the existential philosophy concerning absurdity through literature.
The Plague and The Fall
The Plague and The Fall are profound novels written by Camus that directly address human suffering and moral responsibility. In The Plague, he depicts a quarantined town whose inhabitants are afflicted with a disease that is indiscriminate. The novel, therefore, presents the allegory of collective suffering in the context of moral and ethical dilemmas, emphasizing the interplay between self and collective responsibility to confront mutual dangers. Camus presents the struggle against the absurd as a collective moral imperative to persevere (Karpouzos, 2024). On the other hand, in The Fall, the author depicts the lawyer’s confessional narrative, exposing human errors and the complexities of self-judgment to readers. By doing so, the author utilizes the concepts of absurdism to explore self-examination and the moral ambiguity inherent in humanity. In this regard, this book follows a similar thematic vein as the previous one, prompting readers to interrogate the nature of a genuine moral consciousness (Karpouzos, 2024).
Additionally, Albert Camus’s The Plague and The Fall serve to further enhance the discourse regarding resilience and ethical consciousness among humans, especially in the context of post-war Europe. Both of these works represent and embody the pervasive atmosphere of uncertainty and existential dread many experienced during this time, questioning their purpose amid absurdity as well as the absurd nature of society as a whole. In The Plague, the reaction and moral responsibility of a community confronting an unstoppable plague at their threshold also mirrors the social issues of the post-war period, with the crisis of the epidemic functioning as a universal metaphor for the loss of a society’s sense of order and meaning amid tragedy, with the politics of despair necessitating a collective moral act (Onwuatuegwu & Arinze, 2020). Similarly, The Fall explores the concept of guilt, yet the attention is focused towards the internal struggle individuals face as they come to realize their moral failures and what it means both to themselves and others. Through the dialogues and themes explored in his literature, Camus once again tapped into the anxieties brought on by the post-war atmosphere, but now as a means to examine the implications of personal ethics, individual responsibility, and their relationship with existential freedom.
Legacy and Influence
The arguments and theories in the works by Albert Camus have a distinct mark in his impact on contemporary philosophy and literature, with themes like absurdity and incorporating the traditions in existentialism as well. Camus interrogated the contradictions of the world, and contradictions remain present to be explored even in contemporary times. Specifically, the philosophies expressed by Camus in how he executed his works are reflected in the recent debates and arguments in contemporary philosophy. Camus’s literary works, especially The Plague and The Stranger, secure an esteemed position for him in the literary canon. In contemporary times, scholars refer to his works increasingly, engaging with his themes. He is recognized as an author and a novelist who integrated existentialism into literature. Centering humanity, its environment, and themes in his work propelled him to prominence. From then on, his writings have explored how to live ethically in this absurd world. It can be a significant effect of his theories in contemporary literature as well, as he remains relevant with his art. Overall, through his sustained influence, the writers and the thinkers who came after him have continued questioning life amidst false ideals and uncertainty, guiding philosophers and writers as well in his intellectual footsteps, be it in thoughts or practices.
Certainly, Camus’s continuing importance can be seen in debates surrounding existentialism and humanism, where the relevance of his thoughtful stance still informs discussions. As the belief in the absurd and commitment to personal freedom continues to resonate in philosophical circles, contemporaries are influenced by a perspective that emphasizes the idea of meaning defined by a person’s values instead of dogmas imposed externally (Arinze & Onwuatuegwu, 2020). His approach to a mode of existence that upholds value and a commitment to ethical behavior without succumbing to nihilism is particularly consistent with humanism and a sentiment that has endured with us. The notion of human significance and a sense of dignity in destiny, despite the indifference of the universe, resonates on a profound level, a timelessness that seems to stimulate inquiry into how one can find meaning in life given the uncertainties that characterize our existence. This sense of discovery has fostered significant engagement with Camus’s philosophical foundations and their role in shaping intellectual frameworks attentive to freedom and autonomy.
Conclusion
Drawing a conclusion based on the thorough study of the body of work of Albert Camus, it should be noted that the legacy of this distinguished philosopher and writer is enduring and influential for contemporary society. The core idea of the absurd condition, so skillfully elaborated in repetitions and extensive and creative combinations, and the endeavor to reconcile this absurdity with the individual quest for meaning and truth and its initial exploration — an outstanding and paramount contribution to modern existential inquiry. The concept of rebellion against the absurd, the themes of existentialism, post-colonialism, justice, and revolts and revolutions, Mediterranean influences — all these themes enable Camus to address the human quest both philosophically and narratively. His approach is comprehensive enough and provides the reader with vivid depictions of post-war life and thought, and the perspectives of the whole human condition from post-war and colonial conflicts to universal existential questions through philosophical and narrative discourse. Camus is a master of integrating ideas with literary artistry to inspire anyone to contemplate moral dilemmas and existential questions, and encourage them to confront the absurd with authenticity and cultivate personal freedom above all else, yet acknowledge the elusiveness of truth.
References
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Hawkins, M. A. (2024). Albert Camus, Ernest Becker, and the art of living in existential paradox. Journal of Humanistic Psychology, 64(2), 281–300.
Hayden, P. (2019). Albert Camus on revolt and revolution. In Brill’s companion to Camus (pp. 348–365). Brill.
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Tabensky, P. (2020). Rebellion and revolution. In The African other (pp. 115–128). Routledge.
