Term 1 Personal Enrichment Project (2011-12)
Moorhead / Wait
This project is worth 10% of Term 1.
Journal work:
1
2
3
Find examples of existentialism (especially Camus' interpretation) and nihilism in the
novel. Explain how these philosophies help the reader understand Meursault's
development in the novel.
How are you like Meursault? How are you not like him? What do you admire about
him? What do you dislike about him? Why? What conclusions can you make about him
and / or yourself then?
To what other novels, films, poems or short stories can you connect The Outsider (theme,
imagery, symbolism, ideas, history etc)? What other works illustrate or develop the
contrast between existentialism and nihilism? Why (be specific)?
Write a literary essay of approximately 750 to 1000 words. You must use specific references (give
page numbers for quotations) to support your arguments.
Choose 1: (due Friday October 7).
3
1
Using the Lossky and Yannaros articles and what you have learned about personhood,
would you characterize Meursault as a “person”? Why? Why not?
2
“With Meursault, the lack of curiosity about himself or anyone else produces the illusion of
‘sincerity’, which masks the inhumanity of his behaviour.” (Forbidden Knowledge – Roger
Shattuck)
The point of view in the novel is first person. Given your interpretation of Meursault's
character, should the reader trust him? How is he manipulating us rhetorically?
NOTE:
Given that multiple classes are working on the same novel and questions,
distinguishing yourself is a must. The temptation to copy is a problem and
could lead to a 0 for your assignment. Do discuss with friends; do use
internet and book resources; do NOT copy. We want you to understand and
be able to apply your knowledge. A test could be given to ensure you did the
work.
Criteria:
We are looking for depth of insight into a work. Is your analysis or synthesis supported
by the work? To what degree does your interpretation or analysis go beyond a superficial reading
(plot driven)? Is there originality in your responses or interpretation? Is there evidence of research
or sophisticated engagement with the work? Have you used literary terminology correctly and
insightfully in your interpretation or response?