Albert Camus

Albert Camus (1913–1960). A French philosopher, writer, and journalist, best known for his contributions to existentialism and absurdism. Though he is often associated with existentialist thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre, Camus rejected the label, emphasizing his philosophy of the absurd—the idea that human beings seek meaning in a universe that offers none.

Key Works:

• “The Stranger” (L’Étranger, 1942) – A novel about Meursault, an emotionally detached man who commits a senseless murder, illustrating Camus’ concept of the absurd.
• “The Myth of Sisyphus” (1942) – A philosophical essay arguing that life’s lack of inherent meaning does not necessitate despair but can instead be met with defiance and acceptance.
• “The Plague” (La Peste, 1947) – A novel about an epidemic in Algeria, which serves as an allegory for human suffering and resistance.
• “The Fall” (La Chute, 1956) – A novel in the form of a dramatic monologue exploring themes of guilt and judgment.
• “The Rebel” (L’Homme révolté, 1951) – A philosophical work discussing rebellion and its ethical implications.

Key Ideas:

• The Absurd – The conflict between human desire for meaning and the indifferent universe.
• Revolt – Instead of succumbing to nihilism, Camus advocates for a rebellious, life-affirming stance in the face of absurdity.
• Freedom – Recognizing the absurd allows for a kind of liberation, as one is no longer bound by false hopes or imposed meanings.

In 1957, Camus won the Nobel Prize in Literature, becoming one of the youngest recipients. He tragically died in a car accident in 1960 at the age of 46.