The Stranger - Meursault Character Analysis through Raymond

Meursault meets Raymond

Jun 3, 1946

Raymond has a bad reputation in their apartment complex, but Meursault listens to him regardless. Meursault thinks that Raymond is interesting, so he makes his own decision. This action shows that Meursault gives people a chance before judging them according to other people's opinions. However, he does make assumptions based on physical appearances, such as facial features and clothes.

Meursault writes letter for Raymond

Jun 4, 1946

Raymond asks Meursault to write a letter to his mistress in order to obtain revenge. Meursault willingly agrees to complete this questionable act, because he saw no reason not to help Raymond. Meursault does not have any true motivation, and he is willing to go along with anything that he does not consider bothersome. However, his criteria for "bothersome" is unknown and inconsistent.

Raymond beats up his mistress

Jun 5, 1946

This incident reinforces Meursault's apathy. While Marie is appalled and stops eating dinner, Meursault elicits no reaction. Marie begs Meursault to call the police, but Meursault refuses because he dislikes cops. Meursault finds a questionable excuse in order to move on and ignore the commotion.

Meursault testifies for Raymond

Jun 6, 1946

Raymond tells Meursault exactly what he needs to say, and Meursault just follows. Meursault has no second thoughts, which demonstrates his willingness to follow regardless of the situation.

Raymond gets knifed

Jun 7, 1946

This event shows that Meursault is not completely apathetic, as he defends Raymond and carries him back to the house.

Meursault shoots the arab for Raymond

Jun 8, 1946

This is the second public declaration of Meursault's loyalty to Raymond. It reveals that he is willing to go to great lengths to satisfy Raymond. This single event has the most influence on the rest of the book.