Interiority
Vol. 8, No. 1

Decrypting Interiority of Albert Camus' The Stranger Through Absurdist Architectural Symbolism

Agwu, Peter Akongfeh (Unknown)
Ajimase, Angela A. (Unknown)
Adie, Edward Ugbada (Unknown)
Acha, John Ogidi (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 Jan 2025

Abstract

Since its publication in 1942, Camus' The Stranger (L'Étranger in French) has captivated readers and scholars alike, sparking a wealth of critical analysis and interpretation. However, the novel's minimalist descriptions of interior spaces have often been overlooked in academic discourses, making it a perennial subject of further scholarly inquiry. This study seeks to decrypt the interiority of this text by examining the absurdist architectural symbolism and dissecting the spatial elements embedded in its narrative. The aim is to unveil new layers of meaning in the protagonist's internal psyche and existential condition. Through close reading and thematic analysis of relevant passages, salient elements will be identified and examined for their evocative significance. Insights from existentialist philosophy, particularly Camus' (1942a) theories on the absurd, inform the interpretation of architectural motifs in the text. The analysis reveals that elements such as Meursault's apartment, the courtroom, and the prison serve as emblematic representations of existential themes of alienation, detachment, and the absurdity of human existence. The minimalist descriptions of these spaces underscore Meursault's emotional detachment and his struggle to find meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. The spatial isolation experienced by the protagonist mirrors the existential loneliness and societal alienation central to Camus' philosophy. The study highlights the relevance of architectural symbolism in conveying complex existential concepts.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

publication:interiority

Publisher

Subject

Arts Humanities Civil Engineering, Building, Construction & Architecture Social Sciences

Description

The journal presents the discourses on interiority from multiple perspectives in various design-related disciplines: architecture, interior design, spatial design, and other relevant fields. The idea of interiority emphasises the internal aspects that make and condition the interior, which might be ...