Is the Stranger as innocent as he appears?

The Stranger, by Albert Camus, presents its protagonist, Meursault, as seemingly innocent in his detached demeanor and honest reactions to life’s events. However, his emotional indifference and refusal to conform to societal expectations raise questions about his moral innocence. His actions, particularly surrounding the death of his mother and the subsequent murder of an Arab, suggest a deeper existential disconnection that challenges traditional notions of innocence. Ultimately, Meursault's innocence is complex, reflecting the absurdity of life rather than a straightforward moral standing.