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480 BCE
Introduction
Meursault first describes Salamano as he beats his old, scab-covered dog. The two are described as having a rather violent love-hate relationship, yet both are inseparable, according to Meursault. This moment illuminates Meursault's apathy and indifference because he describes in detail how violently Salamano beats his dog, yet Meursault takes no action whatsoever. -
1 BCE
Dogged By Grief
Meursault sees Salamano looking sad and "flustered" without his dog. Even though Meursault only describes Salamano physically, he asks Salamano what's wrong and notices that his neighbor is distraught. Thus, although Meursault doesn't actually feel any of the same emotion that others experience, he understands the impact it has on others (in this case, Salamano.) -
Oct 14, 1066
Knock knock
Salamano knocks on Mersault's door, to which Mersault answers and consoles him. Mersault reassures Salamano that there is a chance he can get his dog back at the pound. This reveals his sympathy for Salamano because he gives Salamano hope. After Salamano leaves, Mersault hears him crying and thinks of Maman. Mersault relates to Salamano because he also lost family that he treated poorly. He feels guilty for his actions and even loses his appetite, a telltale indicator of his mood. -
Life Story
Salamano finally vocalizes the joy his dog brought to him, even though throughout Salamano's life he's acted violently toward it. He opens up to Meursault and puts himself in a place of vulnerability, and Meursault responds to this without emotion but in a way that apparently comforts his neighbor. Salamano tells Meursault his life story, showing that Meurseult is someone who's easy to talk to and be around (despite his lack of connection to others). -
Testimony
When Salamano testifies on behalf of Meursault, it not only shows that some people (some might say the least moral people) in the community like and support Meursault, but it also helps the reader--although not the jury--understand how some of Meursault's actions might have been perfectly logical and acceptable. Salamano's pleas for understanding might show that he's a lonely man who wants to keep his friend from prison, but it also points out the absurdity of the court system. -
Reflection
As Mersault nears his execution, he thinks of Salamano and says Salamano's dog is worth just as much as Salamano's wife. This statement shows how Mersault believes the values of people and possessions are determined individually, and the worth of something to one person may not agree with the worth of the same thing to another person. We determine what we think has value.