12 Best Albert Camus Book To Start With

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Are you looking to explore the works of one of the most influential writers of the 20th century? Look no further than Albert Camus. The French author was a philosopher, journalist, and novelist awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1957 for his contributions to the art of writing. His works delve into existentialist themes such as the meaning of life, the human condition, and the search for truth and justice.

If you’re new to Camus and don’t know where to start, we’ve compiled a list of the 12 best Albert Camus books to get you started. From his seminal novel, “The Stranger,” to his philosophical essay, “The Myth of Sisyphus,” these works offer a glimpse into the mind of one of the greatest thinkers of our time. Get ready to immerse yourself in the world of Albert Camus and explore the human condition like never before!

Best Albert Camus Book To Start With

1. The Stranger (L’Étranger)

“The Stranger” is a novel by Albert Camus and was first published in 1942. The book is considered a masterpiece of existentialist literature and has been widely regarded as one of the greatest works of the 20th century.

The story revolves around the life of Meursault, the protagonist of the book, who is a detached and emotionally uninvolved person. The novel opens with the death of Meursault’s mother, but he does not grieve for her loss and does not attend her funeral. Instead, he continues on with his life as if nothing has changed. He begins a romantic relationship with a woman named Marie and later shoots and kills an Arab man.

The book explores Meursault’s feelings and thoughts leading up to the murder and the subsequent trial. Throughout the novel, Meursault’s lack of empathy, indifference to the world around him, and rejection of societal norms are highlighted. This is in sharp contrast to the attitudes of the other characters in the novel, who are deeply affected by emotions and societal expectations.

Meursault’s murder and the subsequent trial are used by Camus to explore larger philosophical themes of existentialism, absurdity, and the search for meaning in life. The novel argues that life has no inherent meaning or purpose and that individuals must create their own meaning and purpose. The novel suggests that people should embrace the freedom that comes with this lack of meaning and not be controlled by societal expectations.

The trial in the book serves as a metaphor for society’s attempts to impose meaning and order on an inherently meaningless world. The prosecutor and the judge try to impose their values and beliefs on Meursault, but he remains unapologetic and refuses to conform to their expectations.

In the end, Meursault is sentenced to death, but he accepts his fortune with calm detachment. He realizes that his death will be no different from the death of anyone else and that the societal norms and values he rejected during his life do not matter in the end.

“The Stranger” is a thought-provoking novel that challenges readers to question their beliefs and values. The book’s themes of existentialism, absurdity and the search for meaning continue to be relevant today and have influenced generations of readers and thinkers. The book is a powerful reminder of the importance of individuality, freedom, and the power of human choice in determining the meaning of life.


2. The Plague (La Peste)

“The Plague” is a novel by Albert Camus published in 1947. The book is set in the Algerian city of Oran and depicts a bubonic plague outbreak that takes place in the city. The novel uses the outbreak of the plague as a metaphor for the human condition and the existential questions that arise from it.

The story follows a doctor named Rieux, who is one of the first people to recognize the outbreak of the disease. He works tirelessly to treat the sick and help contain the spread of the disease. The novel also follows a cast of characters, including a journalist, Tarrou, who becomes involved in the effort to stop the spread of the plague; a priest named Paneloux, who grapples with his faith in the face of the tragedy, and a businessman named Grand who learns to find meaning in life through the experience of the plague.

The book explores the theme of the human response to crisis and suffering. Camus argues that in the face of a crisis, people tend to react in one of two ways: either they try to ignore it and continue with their lives as usual, or they become actively involved in trying to solve the problem. The novel suggests that the latter response is more fulfilling and meaningful, allowing individuals to find purpose and meaning in their lives.

The novel also touches on the themes of death, time, and the human search for meaning. Camus uses the plague outbreak to highlight the universality of death and the inevitability of human suffering. He suggests that people should embrace their mortality and not waste their time on meaningless pursuits. The book also argues that the human search for meaning is a universal experience and that people should strive to live a meaningful life.

In the end, the novel shows the power of solidarity and the importance of working together in the face of adversity. The French writer suggests that people should come together in the face of tragedy and help one another, as this is what gives life meaning.

“The Plague” is a powerful and thought-provoking novel exploring human response to crisis and suffering. The book’s themes of mortality, the search for meaning, and the importance of solidarity continue to be relevant today and have inspired generations of readers and thinkers. The novel is a testament to Camus’ ability to write about complex ideas in a clear and accessible way, and it is widely regarded as one of his greatest works.


3. The Myth of Sisyphus

“The Myth of Sisyphus” is a philosophical essay written by Albert Camus and first published in 1942. The essay is a meditation on the ancient Greek myth of Sisyphus, who was doomed by the gods to roll a boulder up a hill only to have it roll back down again, reiterating this task for all eternity.

In the essay, Camus uses the myth of Sisyphus to explore the human condition and the meaning of life. He argues that life is inherently absurd, meaning that there is no inherent meaning or purpose to life. He suggests that people must create their own meaning and purpose in life, as the universe provides none.

Camus argues that, in the face of the absurdity of life, people can either choose to embrace the freedom that comes with it or escape into comforting illusions. He suggests that people should embrace the freedom of the absurd and live a life of creative self-expression. He argues that this is the only way to find meaning and purpose in life.

The essay also explores the themes of hope, happiness, and despair. Camus argues that hope is a false illusion that leads people to believe that their lives have a purpose when they actually do not. He suggests that true happiness is found not in hope but in acceptance of the present moment and the things that one can control.

The essay ends with a discussion of the possibility of suicide as a response to the absurdity of life. Camus argues that suicide is not a valid solution, as it simply ends the possibility of finding meaning and purpose in life. He suggests that people should instead embrace the freedom of the absurd and live life to the fullest, finding meaning and purpose in the things they do and the people they love.

“The Myth of Sisyphus” is a profound and thought-provoking essay that challenges readers to question their beliefs and values. The essay’s themes of the absurdity of life, the search for meaning, and the importance of creative self-expression remain relevant today and have influenced generations of readers and thinkers. The essay is a testament to Camus’ ability to write about complex ideas in a clear and accessible way, and it remains one of his most widely read works.


4. The Rebel (L’Homme révolté)

“The Rebel” is a philosophical essay written by Albert Camus and first published in 1951. The essay explores the concept of revolution and the role of the rebel in society. Camus argues that rebellion is a natural response to the oppressive conditions of the world but that it can also lead to further oppression if not approached in the right way.

Camus argues that there are two types of rebellion: a negative rebellion, which is characterized by a rejection of existing social and political structures, and a positive rebellion, which is characterized by the creation of new structures and ideas. He suggests that the latter type of rebellion is more productive and leads to lasting change.

The essay also explores the themes of freedom, individuality, and justice. Camus argues that people should strive for freedom and individuality but must be balanced with a sense of justice and concern for others. He suggests that the rebel must reject not only oppressive structures but also create new structures that are based on justice and equality.

The essay ends with a discussion of the dangers of revolutionary movements and the need for a new form of rebellion that is not based on violence and destruction. Camus argues that revolution must be approached in a thoughtful and creative way, with an eye toward creating a better future for all.

“The Rebel” is a powerful and thought-provoking essay that challenges readers to rethink their understanding of rebellion and revolution. The essay’s themes of freedom, individuality, and justice remain relevant today and have influenced generations of readers and thinkers. The essay is a testament to Camus’ ability to write about complex ideas in a clear and accessible way, and it remains one of his most widely read works.


5. A Happy Death (La Mort heureuse)

“A Happy Death” is a novel written by Albert Camus and first published in 1971, several years after camus death. The novel tells the story of a man named Meursault, who lives a quiet, uneventful life until he kills a man in a seemingly random act of violence. The story follows Meursault as he comes to terms with his crime and grapples with the meaning of life and death.

The novel explores themes of existentialism and the search for meaning in life. Meursault’s experience of killing a man and facing the possibility of his own death forces him to confront the absurdity of existence and the meaning of life. Throughout the novel, Meursault grapples with questions about the purpose of life and the nature of existence, and he comes to the realization that life has no inherent meaning or purpose.

The novel also explores themes of isolation and loneliness, as Meursault finds himself disconnected from others and struggling to connect with the modern world around him. Despite this, Meursault is ultimately able to find a sense of happiness and fulfillment through his own experiences and through his relationship with life itself.

“A Happy Death” is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that challenges readers to question their beliefs and values. The novel’s themes of existentialism, the search for meaning, and the nature of life and death continue to be relevant today and have influenced generations of readers and thinkers. The novel is a testament to Camus’ ability to write about complex ideas in a compelling and accessible way, and it remains one of his most widely read works.


6. The Fall (La Chute)

“The Fall” is a philosophical novel written by Albert Camus and first published in 1956. The novel is a first-person narrative that follows the story of a lawyer named Jean-Baptiste Clamence, who has become disillusioned with his life and the world around him. Clamence recounts his life story to an unnamed listener in a bar in Amsterdam and reflects on his experiences and the choices he has made.

Throughout the novel, Clamence grapples with themes of guilt, responsibility, and morality. He reflects on his past actions, including his role as a judge and his involvement in a tragic incident, and comes to the realization that he has lived a life of hypocrisy and moral cowardice. Clamence is consumed by guilt and a sense of spiritual emptiness, and he is unable to find any meaning or purpose in his life.

The novel also explores the concept of human beings’ fallibility and the idea that everyone is capable of moral lapses and mistakes. Clamence’s fall from grace is symbolic of the fall of humanity, and his story serves as a warning about the dangers of living a life without moral conviction.


7. Caligula and Three Other Plays

“Caligula and Three Other Plays” is Albert Camus’s writings collection of four plays and was first published in 1944. The four plays in the collection are “Caligula,” “Cross Purpose,” “The Just Assassins,” and “State of Siege.”

“Caligula” is the most well-known play in the collection and is a portrayal of the Roman emperor Caligula and his descent into madness. The play explores themes of power, corruption, and the abuse of authority. Caligula starts out as a well-intentioned ruler, but he becomes increasingly tyrannical as he gains more power. The play is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the corruption it can breed.

“Cross Purpose” is a play about the conflict between a wealthy father and his children, who are frustrated with his stubborn refusal to give them their inheritance. The play explores themes of greed, family relationships, and the human desire for material wealth.

“The Just Assassins” is a play about a group of anarchists who are plotting to kill a government minister in order to protest the injustices of their society. The play explores themes of political activism, revolution, and the morality of violence.

“State of Siege” is a play about a town that is under siege by an enemy force. The play explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

“Caligula and Three Other Plays” is a thought-provoking collection of plays that explores a range of themes and ideas. The plays are a testament to Camus’ versatility as a writer and his ability to tackle complex and challenging subjects. The collection continues to be popular and relevant today and is widely read and studied by students of literature and theater.


8. The First Man (Le Premier Homme)

“The First Man” is an autobiographical novel by Albert Camus, first published posthumously in 1994. The novel is a coming-of-age story that follows the life of a young man named Jacques Cormery, who is growing up in Algeria in the early 20th century. The novel is based on Camus’ own experiences growing up in Algeria, and it provides a glimpse into his childhood, his family, and the world in which he lived.

Throughout the novel, Jacques is searching for a sense of identity and meaning in his life. He struggles with feelings of loneliness and isolation, and he is searching for a connection to the world around him. He is also grappling with the complexities of his relationship with his mother, who is a central figure in his life.

The novel is written in a simple, straightforward style that evocates the setting and the time period in which it takes place. It is a poignant and touching story about the human condition and the search for meaning in a world that can often be difficult and confusing.

“The First Man” is a testament to Camus’ ability to write about complex and deeply personal themes in a way that is both universal and accessible. The novel is a powerful and moving portrayal of the human experience and the struggles that many people face as they search for their place in the world. It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in Camus’ work or in coming-of-age stories more broadly.


9. Notebooks 1935-1942 (Carnets)

“Notebooks 1935-1942” is a collection of personal journals written by Albert Camus during a period of significant personal and professional change in his life. The notebooks were written over the course of seven years and provide a unique and intimate window into Camus’ thoughts, feelings, and experiences during this time.

The notebooks are divided into two parts. The first part, which covers the years 1935 to 1939, is focused on Camus’ reflections on his personal life, his relationships, and his thoughts on the political and social issues of the day. During this period, Camus was living in Paris and working as a journalist, and he was beginning to establish himself as a writer and intellectual.

The second part of the notebooks, which covers the years 1940 to 1942, reflects a more introspective and philosophical tone. During this time, Camus was living in occupied Paris and was struggling with the personal and moral implications of world war ii and the Nazi occupation of France. In these pages, he reflects on his views on life, death, and the meaning of existence, and he begins to lay the foundations for his later philosophical works, such as “The Myth of Sisyphus.”

“Notebooks 1935-1942” provides a fascinating look at the development of Camus’ life and the evolution of his philosophical and political views. The notebooks are a testament to his intellectual curiosity and his ability to engage with the world around him in a meaningful and thoughtful way. They are an essential read for anyone who is interested in Camus’ work or in the broader intellectual and cultural landscape of the mid-20th century.

In conclusion, “Notebooks 1935-1942” is a unique and important collection of writings by Albert Camus that offers insights into the inner workings of his mind and the evolution of his ideas. The notebooks are a valuable resource for anyone interested in his life, work, and philosophy, and they provide a glimpse into the complex and dynamic world of one of the 20th century’s most important thinkers.


10. Resistance, Rebellion, and Death

“Resistance, Rebellion, and Death” is a collection of essays, speeches, and letters written by Albert Camus over the course of his career. The book provides a comprehensive overview of Camus’ views on a range of philosophical, political, and social issues, and it is widely regarded as one of the most important collections of his non-fiction work.

In the essays and speeches contained in this collection, Camus addresses a range of topics, including the nature of freedom and individuality, the role of the artist in society, the effects of colonialism, and the human experience of the absurd. Throughout the book, he argues that individuals must take an active role in shaping the world around them and that resistance and rebellion against injustice and oppression are essential to the preservation of freedom and dignity.

In his letters, Camus reflects on his personal experiences, his relationships, and his intellectual development. He writes about his travels, his struggles with illness, and his experiences as a writer and public figure. These letters provide a unique and intimate look into the life of one of the 20th century’s most important thinkers.

One of the central themes that run throughout “Resistance, Rebellion, and Death” is the idea of the absurd. Camus argues that the human experience is characterized by a fundamental disconnect between our desire for meaning and purpose and the lack of meaning in the universe. He suggests that it is this gap that creates the feeling of the absurd and that the only way to cope with this is to embrace it and find our own meaning in life.

Another key theme in this book is the idea of resistance and rebellion. Camus argues that individuals must resist the forces of oppression and conformity that seek to control their lives and that this resistance is essential to maintaining their freedom and dignity. He also suggests that rebellion against established power structures is necessary to effect change and create a more just and equitable world.

“Resistance, Rebellion, and Death” is a powerful and thought-provoking collection of writings that offers insights into the mind of one of the 20th century’s most important thinkers. The book is essential reading for anyone interested in philosophy, politics, or the human experience, and it provides a comprehensive overview of Camus’ views on a range of important topics.

In conclusion, “Resistance, Rebellion, and Death” is an essential collection of essays, speeches, and letters by Albert Camus that provides a comprehensive overview of his views on a range of philosophical, political, and social issues. The book is an important contribution to the broader intellectual and cultural landscape of the 20th century, and it remains as relevant and thought-provoking today as it was when it was first published.


11. Exile and the Kingdom (L’Exil et le royaume)

“Exile and the Kingdom” is a collection of six short stories by Albert Camus. The stories in this collection explore themes of exile, isolation, and the search for meaning and purpose in life. Through his characters, Camus examines the human condition and the challenges individuals face as they navigate the complexities of existence.

In the first story, “The Adulterous Woman,” Camus explores the themes of loneliness and alienation as a woman finds herself caught between her desire for escape and the constraints of her life. In “The Renegade or a Confused Spirit,” Camus examines the struggle of an individual to find meaning in life and the sense of alienation that arises from a lack of connection with others.

“The Silent Men” is a story about the struggle of a group of workers who find themselves in a state of limbo, caught between their desire for change and the limitations of their situation. “The Guest” is a story about an encounter between a French teacher and an Arab prisoner, and it explores themes of justice, freedom, and the human condition.

“The Growing Stone” is a story about a man who finds himself living in a state of exile, separated from his family and the familiar comforts of home. The final story, “Jonas or the Artist at Work,” is a story about a man who is searching for meaning and purpose in his life as he navigates the complexities of existence.

Throughout the collection, Camus explores the human experience of exile and the search for meaning in life. He suggests that, at times, life may seem chaotic and unpredictable, but that individuals have the power to create meaning for themselves and shape their own lives. Through his characters, Camus demonstrates the importance of embracing the complexities of existence and the opportunities presented by life, no matter how challenging they may be.


12. The Possessed (Les Possédés)

“The Possessed” is a novel written by Albert Camus that was published in 1965. The novel is set in a small town in Algeria and is based on the true story of a group of young men who embark on a series of acts of terrorism and violence.

At the center of the story is a character named Meursault, an outsider in the town. He is a detached and emotionally disconnected individual who is not affected by the passions and emotions of those around him. This detachment makes him a symbol of the absurdity of life and the futility of human existence.

The other characters in the novel are driven by intense passions and emotions, and they are consumed by their political and ideological beliefs. They are seeking to bring about a revolution, but they are not guided by reason or logic, and their actions are fueled by irrationality and extremism.

Camus uses the events in the novel to explore the themes of existentialism and the human condition. He suggests that individuals are often driven by forces beyond their control and that the search for meaning and purpose in life is a difficult and often futile endeavor. He also suggests that humans are prone to violent and destructive behavior and that this behavior is often rooted in fear and insecurity.

The novel also explores themes of political and ideological extremism, and it critiques the idea of revolutionary violence as a means of achieving social and political change. Camus argues that violent revolution is not a solution to societal problems but rather a manifestation of human despair and hopelessness.

The climax of the novel takes place in a courtroom where Meursault is being tried for murder. In this setting, Camus uses the trial to criticize the justice system and to question the idea of punishment as a means of achieving justice. He suggests that the justice system is often driven by irrational and emotional motivations and that it is unable to bring about true justice or to deliver a meaningful resolution to the events described in the novel.

In conclusion, “The Possessed” is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores the themes of existentialism, the human condition, and the search for meaning and purpose in life. Through its characters, Camus offers a critical examination of the human experience, and he challenges the reader to think deeply about the complexities of existence and the role of individuals in shaping their own lives. The novel is a challenging and rewarding read, and it is an essential work for anyone who is interested in exploring the ideas of existentialism and the human experience.


Conclusion

In conclusion, the works of Albert Camus offer a unique perspective on the human condition and the search for meaning in an often absurd world. Whether you are a seasoned reader or a newcomer to his works, these 12 books provide a comprehensive introduction to Camus’ writing style and themes.

From the existentialist novel “The Stranger” to the philosophical essay “The Myth of Sisyphus,” Camus’ writing will challenge and inspire you to think deeply about the world around you. So why not pick up one of these books today and start your journey into the mind of one of the greatest thinkers of the 20th century? You won’t be disappointed.

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