Detatched and Selfish Meursalt

The first three chapters of The Stranger follow Meursault and his thoughts and feelings associated with the death of his mother. From the moment he receives the news of her passing to arriving at the location of her funeral, he bores on about his frustrations and nuisances he encounters along the trip. One can see Meursault's frustrations during the vigil in this passage on page 11,

     We just sat there like that for quite a while. The woman's sighs and sobs were quieting down. She sniffled a lot. Then finally she shut up. I didn't feel drowsy anymore, but I was tired and my back was hurting me. Now it was all these people not making a sound that was getting on my nerves (11).

His reaction to his mother's peers mourning over her death makes one question his character. His choice of words reflect the underlying thoughts associated with being at the last place to say goodbye to his mother. Instead of reflecting on fond memories from his youth or mourning like the rest of the members of the community.

He further displays his true character by complaining about his back pain. Again, he whines about discomfort and fatigue while others continue to mourn this loss.

What is most frustrating is that he criticizes others for aching and sobbing at the place of someone's death. Ultimately, his actions and thoughts during the time from receiving news of his mother's death to saying goodbye create Meursault's character as emotionally indifferent and selfish.

Discussion Question: Do you think Meursault is truly detached and selfish or is this the reaction he gives as a result of possible confusion to specific events?