What is "intellectual language"? What are Mersault's "clear" intentions and emotions? There is not a "so what" in this thesis statement. What is Camus trying to tell the readers?
Rewritten: Camus repeatedly uses the same phrases throughout the book to illustrate how people's daily routines keep them from trying activities they normally would not.
I'm not sure that Camus is saying what I wrote, but it is still a thought. Think about it: if Mersault had not been asked to go to the beach would he have decided on his own to go?
I agree with Elizabeth that "intellectual language" needs to be clarified. I don't find Meursault to have "clear intentions". He is actually quite unsure, and consistently uses modifiers such as "probably", "maybe", and "pretty much". His emotions are not usually clear until the end of the novel. This thesis needs more context to be relevant.
Why does Camus try to show Meursault's "clear intentions and emotions?"
Here goes... Camus use of syntax and diction create a barrier between the reader and Meursault. The barrier demonstrates how individuals like Meursault have a hard time being accepted by society.
"Sparse intellectual language" is very unclear. Intellectual language based on whose judgement or opinion? I also do not think that Meursault has clear intentions or emotions.
Camus uses a repetition of phrases in "The Stranger" to emphasize the idea that people will supress their emotions in order to keep their lives from changing from their daily routine.
Emotions? What emotions? Mersault is just about the most apathetic person I have ever read about. I agree with everyone else on "intellectual language" part. It needs to be much more spoecific as to what such "intellectual language" is. I certainly don't know what it means.
Camus contrasts detailed descriptions of physical surroundings with vague statements regarding Mersault's inner emotions to indicate that the concept of an intellectual existance is redundant.
I believe the "blahda blahda Meursault doesn't have emotions or intentions" comments have been done to ad nauseum.
The novel is written in first person. I don't think that Camus really had to use "sparse intellectual language" as the only way to say what Meursault wants. Meursault comments directly that he is hungry or sleepy many times in the book.
So I can understand where you get the "intellectual language" from, in contrast to his usually simple wording, but the way it is expressed in the thesis is vague. And like everyone else said, I don't think that he expresses his intentions and emotions clearly. I think, if anything, that it gives more credibility to Meursault as an intellectual character.
Camus uses sophisticated vocabulary in order to give Meursault credibily as an intelligent character and to contrast his simple thought process.
What does "sparse" add to the effect of the theme? Additionally, (as said before) what is the so what? There is not really an impact here, nor really a why. This only contributes to the vagueness. I personally don't think that Meursault's intentions are clear nor do I think that 'intellectual language' is used. If anything, the wording was very simplistic. Plus, most of that would come as a result of the translator and lessen the probability that Camus intentionally designed it as a theme. I'm not sure I understand what the thesis is trying to say, but this is my best shot at a rewrite (Edit of Elizabeth's):
In Albert Camus' The Stranger, the repetition of similar phrases emphasizes the characters' daily routines. This lack of change reveals the lack of goals and ultimately, point to life.
I'm sure that Meursault does indeed use "sparse intellectual language". I think sparse is a good word to use because it gives the effect that it is not always there. Meursault doesn't always have clear intentions and emotions throughout the novel though, because Meursault doesn't know how to interpret/read his emotions so he can't have "clear emotions". According to this thesis does this mean that Meursault had a clear intention of killing the Arab? This last part needs to be clarified in order for me to fully appreciate what is being said.
I don't really know how to edit it however here is my attempt: In The Stranger, Camus uses sparse intellectual language to demonstrate Meursault's complex emotions.
I know complex is not the right word, however it shows how the way Meursault analyzes his emotions is complex and not understood by others
"Clear intentions" is quite vague, clarify what Mersault's "clear intentions" are. Also, "intellectual language" is vague, and needs clarification. I may even disagree on this point, and instead argue that Mersault does not use intellectual language, his vocabulary is nothing extravagant. I would also say that Mersault is not expressing his emotions through his short sentenes, rather it is a contrast towards the complexity of his overall situation in the novel.
Rewrite: In Albert Camus' The Stranger, Mersault's use of short and simple sentences uses contrast to provide a cynical view of the complexity of society's form of justice.
Although Camus does use very simplistic language at the beginning of the book, but i would argue it definitely changes as the book progresses. By the end Meresault's thoughts are more complex and flow into one another, and Camus' use of words reflects this. I think that it is a good idea to examine Camus' choice of words and his style, but examine how and why it evolves over the course of the novel.
Camus makes use of a stylistic shift, from simplistic word choice and sentence structure to the use of complex and flowing ideas, to illustrate the idea that intellectual reasoning has no purpose outside the creation of one's personal beliefs.
I don't know what you mean by "sparse intellectual language", I feel like that does not describe how the book was actually written.
Camus uses short, simple sentences to create a distance between the reader and Mersault, which contributes to Mersault's inability to make emotional connections to anything or anybody.
As everyone else has stated, this thesis is vague and confusing. What is meant by "intellectual language"? I also think that Meursault's vocabulary is simplistic and plain.
I would also specify what his clear intentions and emotions are, such as grief or anger or something.
I don't know if this is what Camus is saying or if it's consistent throughout the novel. But here's how I would rewrite this thesis:
Camus uses uncomplicated diction to parallel Meursault's simple thoughts and feelings to show how he views the complexities of society.
Needs clarification on the "sparse intellectual language" and I am not sure I agree with your point. I feel Mersault has very ambiguous intentions and emotions...
Camus uses straightforward language to mirror Mersault's straightforward emotions in order to emphasize society's expectation of an increased emotional reaction during a traumatic event.
There is no universal truth here, it just relates to the book.
Camus uses short direct diction to parallel Meursault's straightforward logical thoughts,which contrasts with the eloquent diction of the lawyers to show how an individual and a government are so different, yet how they can still cooperate.
You can't define what "intellectual language" is. Because of that, the "how" is compromised and isn't specific enough, leading to the belief that this is not quite a thesis and is just a statement. Editing Isabel's:
Camus utilizes simple diction and language to project Meursault's lucid philosophy of living, which contrasts with the complex and flowing diction of the lawyers to show how an individual can be opposite of society, but still interact with one another.
I like this idea. I agree that through the concise qualities of Mersault's thoughts, Camus shows a path in which he would like to stay on. I would clarify what "intelectual" is. And also intentions and emotions are different things. i think that throught the lack of emotions, it also attains to clear intentions (as emotions are often the thing that knock people off of their intended path). So I would use emotions with the lack of language to bulid to the clear idea of what Mersault wants.
"In Albert Camus' The Stranger, the use of sparse description and lack of emotions demonstrates Mersault's clear, structured intentions."
But what does this say about the human condition? I think it needs to be a little more specific.
I'll give it a try: "In The Stranger, Camus demonstrates a theme of human intellectuality in the face of the absurd through the clear intentions and emotions of his character, Meursault."
(I'm going to analyze Jarrad's thesis) This is a great idea. However, how can anyone be truly opposite of society? Secondly, the use of the word "interact" makes it feel like they are just communicating. Rewrite: Camus uses simple language and diction to project Meursault's view of the world, in contrast to the flowing diction of the lawyers. This shows how even when an individual's ideology is different that society's, they may still interact.
" intellectual language" can be interpruted in many different ways. I would make this term more specific to clearly explain the thesis' motives. I also think that the thesis is missing the question of how. I would rewrite this as: Albert Camus uses simpler language in The Stranger to explain Mersault's motives.
What is "intellectual language"? What are Mersault's "clear" intentions and emotions? There is not a "so what" in this thesis statement. What is Camus trying to tell the readers?
ReplyDeleteRewritten: Camus repeatedly uses the same phrases throughout the book to illustrate how people's daily routines keep them from trying activities they normally would not.
I'm not sure that Camus is saying what I wrote, but it is still a thought. Think about it: if Mersault had not been asked to go to the beach would he have decided on his own to go?
I agree with Elizabeth that "intellectual language" needs to be clarified. I don't find Meursault to have "clear intentions". He is actually quite unsure, and consistently uses modifiers such as "probably", "maybe", and "pretty much". His emotions are not usually clear until the end of the novel.
ReplyDeleteThis thesis needs more context to be relevant.
Why does Camus try to show Meursault's "clear intentions and emotions?"
ReplyDeleteHere goes...
Camus use of syntax and diction create a barrier between the reader and Meursault. The barrier demonstrates how individuals like Meursault have a hard time being accepted by society.
Meh. I'll edit this later.
"Sparse intellectual language" is very unclear. Intellectual language based on whose judgement or opinion? I also do not think that Meursault has clear intentions or emotions.
ReplyDeleteCamus uses a repetition of phrases in "The Stranger" to emphasize the idea that people will supress their emotions in order to keep their lives from changing from their daily routine.
I don't know what qualifies as "intellectual language", but that definitely needs to be clarified.
ReplyDeleteIn Albert Camus' "The Stranger", the use of common words demonstrates Mersault's straightforward approach to his life and routines.
How are Meursaults intentions clear in any way throughout the book?
ReplyDeleteThat part is contradicted on so many occasions throughout the book that i dont think it works at all.
What is the purpose of showing emotions and intentions? And what is intellectual language?
ReplyDeleteCamus uses a pattern of short sentences parallel with Meursault's thoughts to illustrate that life is simply living, then dying.
Emotions? What emotions? Mersault is just about the most apathetic person I have ever read about. I agree with everyone else on "intellectual language" part. It needs to be much more spoecific as to what such "intellectual language" is. I certainly don't know what it means.
ReplyDeleteCamus contrasts detailed descriptions of physical surroundings with vague statements regarding Mersault's inner emotions to indicate that the concept of an intellectual existance is redundant.
I believe the "blahda blahda Meursault doesn't have emotions or intentions" comments have been done to ad nauseum.
ReplyDeleteThe novel is written in first person. I don't think that Camus really had to use "sparse intellectual language" as the only way to say what Meursault wants. Meursault comments directly that he is hungry or sleepy many times in the book.
So I can understand where you get the "intellectual language" from, in contrast to his usually simple wording, but the way it is expressed in the thesis is vague. And like everyone else said, I don't think that he expresses his intentions and emotions clearly. I think, if anything, that it gives more credibility to Meursault as an intellectual character.
ReplyDeleteCamus uses sophisticated vocabulary in order to give Meursault credibily as an intelligent character and to contrast his simple thought process.
What does "sparse" add to the effect of the theme? Additionally, (as said before) what is the so what? There is not really an impact here, nor really a why. This only contributes to the vagueness. I personally don't think that Meursault's intentions are clear nor do I think that 'intellectual language' is used. If anything, the wording was very simplistic. Plus, most of that would come as a result of the translator and lessen the probability that Camus intentionally designed it as a theme. I'm not sure I understand what the thesis is trying to say, but this is my best shot at a rewrite (Edit of Elizabeth's):
ReplyDeleteIn Albert Camus' The Stranger, the repetition of similar phrases emphasizes the characters' daily routines. This lack of change reveals the lack of goals and ultimately, point to life.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI'm sure that Meursault does indeed use "sparse intellectual language". I think sparse is a good word to use because it gives the effect that it is not always there. Meursault doesn't always have clear intentions and emotions throughout the novel though, because Meursault doesn't know how to interpret/read his emotions so he can't have "clear emotions". According to this thesis does this mean that Meursault had a clear intention of killing the Arab? This last part needs to be clarified in order for me to fully appreciate what is being said.
ReplyDeleteI don't really know how to edit it however here is my attempt:
In The Stranger, Camus uses sparse intellectual language to demonstrate Meursault's complex emotions.
I know complex is not the right word, however it shows how the way Meursault analyzes his emotions is complex and not understood by others
"Clear intentions" is quite vague, clarify what Mersault's "clear intentions" are.
ReplyDeleteAlso, "intellectual language" is vague, and needs clarification. I may even disagree on this point, and instead argue that Mersault does not use intellectual language, his vocabulary is nothing extravagant. I would also say that Mersault is not expressing his emotions through his short sentenes, rather it is a contrast towards the complexity of his overall situation in the novel.
Rewrite: In Albert Camus' The Stranger, Mersault's use of short and simple sentences uses contrast to provide a cynical view of the complexity of society's form of justice.
Although Camus does use very simplistic language at the beginning of the book, but i would argue it definitely changes as the book progresses. By the end Meresault's thoughts are more complex and flow into one another, and Camus' use of words reflects this. I think that it is a good idea to examine Camus' choice of words and his style, but examine how and why it evolves over the course of the novel.
ReplyDeleteCamus makes use of a stylistic shift, from simplistic word choice and sentence structure to the use of complex and flowing ideas, to illustrate the idea that intellectual reasoning has no purpose outside the creation of one's personal beliefs.
I don't know what you mean by "sparse intellectual language", I feel like that does not describe how the book was actually written.
ReplyDeleteCamus uses short, simple sentences to create a distance between the reader and Mersault, which contributes to Mersault's inability to make emotional connections to anything or anybody.
As everyone else has stated, this thesis is vague and confusing. What is meant by "intellectual language"? I also think that Meursault's vocabulary is simplistic and plain.
ReplyDeleteI would also specify what his clear intentions and emotions are, such as grief or anger or something.
I don't know if this is what Camus is saying or if it's consistent throughout the novel. But here's how I would rewrite this thesis:
Camus uses uncomplicated diction to parallel Meursault's simple thoughts and feelings to show how he views the complexities of society.
Needs clarification on the "sparse intellectual language" and I am not sure I agree with your point. I feel Mersault has very ambiguous intentions and emotions...
ReplyDeleteCamus uses straightforward language to mirror Mersault's straightforward emotions in order to emphasize society's expectation of an increased emotional reaction during a traumatic event.
There is no universal truth here, it just relates to the book.
ReplyDeleteCamus uses short direct diction to parallel Meursault's straightforward logical thoughts,which contrasts with the eloquent diction of the lawyers to show how an individual and a government are so different, yet how they can still cooperate.
You can't define what "intellectual language" is. Because of that, the "how" is compromised and isn't specific enough, leading to the belief that this is not quite a thesis and is just a statement. Editing Isabel's:
ReplyDeleteCamus utilizes simple diction and language to project Meursault's lucid philosophy of living, which contrasts with the complex and flowing diction of the lawyers to show how an individual can be opposite of society, but still interact with one another.
I like this idea. I agree that through the concise qualities of Mersault's thoughts, Camus shows a path in which he would like to stay on. I would clarify what "intelectual" is. And also intentions and emotions are different things. i think that throught the lack of emotions, it also attains to clear intentions (as emotions are often the thing that knock people off of their intended path). So I would use emotions with the lack of language to bulid to the clear idea of what Mersault wants.
ReplyDelete"In Albert Camus' The Stranger, the use of sparse description and lack of emotions demonstrates Mersault's clear, structured intentions."
Good thesis, but like I said for the others, why does Camus do this? What is he trying to say?
ReplyDeleteIn the Stranger, Albert Camus uses little intellectual language in order to demonstrate Mersault's clear motives and emotions.
Clearify 'sparse intellectual language'.
ReplyDeleteCamus mostly uses simple language to demonstrate Meursault's clear intentions and emotions.
But what does this say about the human condition? I think it needs to be a little more specific.
ReplyDeleteI'll give it a try:
"In The Stranger, Camus demonstrates a theme of human intellectuality in the face of the absurd through the clear intentions and emotions of his character, Meursault."
(I'm going to analyze Jarrad's thesis) This is a great idea. However, how can anyone be truly opposite of society? Secondly, the use of the word "interact" makes it feel like they are just communicating.
ReplyDeleteRewrite: Camus uses simple language and diction to project Meursault's view of the world, in contrast to the flowing diction of the lawyers. This shows how even when an individual's ideology is different that society's, they may still interact.
" intellectual language" can be interpruted in many different ways. I would make this term more specific to clearly explain the thesis' motives. I also think that the thesis is missing the question of how.
ReplyDeleteI would rewrite this as:
Albert Camus uses simpler language in The Stranger to explain Mersault's motives.