Meursault vs. Sweeper

Attribute	Meursault	Sweeper
Occupation	Office clerk	Street sweeper
Personality	Detached, indifferent	Hardworking, diligent
Relationships	Struggles with emotional connections	Close with family and friends
Setting	Algeria	Unknown

Background

Meursault is the protagonist of Albert Camus' novel "The Stranger," while Sweeper is a character in William Blake's poem "The Chimney Sweeper." Both characters come from different literary works and time periods, but they share some similarities in their attributes and experiences.

Personality

Meursault is portrayed as detached and indifferent to the world around him. He lacks emotions and does not conform to societal norms. Sweeper, on the other hand, is depicted as innocent and hopeful despite his harsh circumstances. He maintains a sense of optimism and resilience in the face of adversity.

Relationships

Meursault struggles to form meaningful connections with others. He is distant from his girlfriend, Marie, and does not show much concern for her feelings. Sweeper, on the other hand, forms bonds with other chimney sweepers and finds solace in their shared experiences. He values friendship and camaraderie.

Perception of Death

Meursault has a nihilistic view of death. He sees it as a natural part of life and does not fear it. Sweeper, on the other hand, is exposed to death at a young age and grapples with its meaning. He questions the fairness of mortality and seeks comfort in the idea of an afterlife.

Freedom

Meursault values his freedom above all else. He rejects societal expectations and lives according to his own desires. Sweeper, on the other hand, is trapped in a life of poverty and exploitation. He longs for freedom from his oppressive circumstances and dreams of a better future.

Existentialism

Meursault embodies the principles of existentialism, questioning the meaning of life and the existence of a higher power. He embraces the absurdity of the world and finds freedom in accepting his own mortality. Sweeper, on the other hand, grapples with the injustices of society and seeks meaning in his suffering.

Conclusion

While Meursault and Sweeper come from different literary works and backgrounds, they share common themes of existentialism, freedom, and relationships. Both characters offer insights into the human experience and provoke reflection on the nature of existence. Their contrasting attributes highlight the diversity of human emotions and perspectives.