Albert Camus' The Stranger presents one of the most interesting protagonists in literary history. Merusault is a man completely void of any feeling or emotion no matter what the situation, and he never seems to change. Throughout the novel, there are extremely emotional situations that Meursault neglects to even acknowledge. Upon reading The Stranger one must wonder where Camus had the idea for such a curious character, but with research the answer is very simple to find. It is clear that because of the events which took place in Albert Camus' life before the publication of The Stranger, he was able to create a character who could reflect the life he longed for; a life without emotion of any kind.

"Maman died today. Or yesterday maybe, I don't know." These famous opening lines completely set the tone for the rest of the novel. Meursault's mother dies and he...