The Sweet Embrace of Death

Albert Camus' story The Stranger is a complex story which discusses the merits of existentialism. The story argues in a prudent manner, through Mersault's interactions with others including his mother whom is the only individual in his life who is a truly good person, the magistrate in the chapel who attempts to proselytize prayer, and his friends who have given him the ability to "pass time" - that he truly accepts the grim nature of his fate. Camus thoroughly explores how rejection of religion can lead to a greater understanding of the inevitable future all people face being death. Camus wrote, "While not an atheist, Maman had never in her life given a though to religion" (6). Furthermore, the discussion of the magistrate proves to be a strong example of how Mersault's rejection of all conformist portions of religion lead to his overall understanding of life. These scenes are contributing factors to Camus' overall point that similar to Benjamin interaction with others can lead to salvation.