The Stranger, Part 2, first half—Assignment #3
I am assuming you have read my introduction before you began these assignments. If not, go back and read the Page called Introduction to Part 2.
Questions on Chapter 1 of Part 2 (63-71) These require extended answers:
1 Meursault has been arrested. Write a paragraph explaining how he feels about his arrest and the procedures. Quote from the text.
2 Study the scene with the Magistrate on pages 69-70 (towards the end of Ch. 1).
Describe the Magistrate’s behavior and Meursault’s reaction.
Write a paragraph explaining how this scene is an example of Existentialism.
Questions on Chapter 2 of Part 2: (72-81)
3 Explain what the scene of the visitor’s room is like. Who visits Meursault? How does he feel about this visit? Who else is in the room? How do they behave? What bothers Meursault the most in this scene?
4 What are some of the adjustments that Meursault must make as a prisoner? What is his attitude or general feeling in prison?
The Stranger, Part 2 second half–Assignment #4
This assignment deals with Part 2, chapters 3, 4, and 5 (p 82 to end of book)
What you need to understand: the difference between these words:
Subjective: Based on personal judgments or personal emotions, or reactions peculiar to an individual.
Objective: Involving the use of facts or of scientific knowledge.
Please get those two ideas straight – you might check your own dictionaries for additional definitions of those terms.
Remember that a Court of Law, a trial, is meant to be Objective.
Number your answers.
Chapter 3 (82-97)
1 – 5. List 5 of the 8 witnesses and give the testimony that witness offers. Also note whether each one helps Meursault’s case or not.
Chapter 4 (98 – 107)
7. Explain, in two sentences each, the arguments presented by the Prosecution (the lawyer against Meursault) and the argument presented by the Defense (Meursault’s lawyer).
Explain in a paragraph why Meursault’s trial and the verdict are Subjective and not Objective.
On p. 96 (end of 8) Meursault’s lawyer cries out: “Come now, is my client on trial for killing a man or for burying his mother?”
Which is it? Explain your answer.
Chapter 5 (108-123)
Meursault comes to terms with his fate. What is his fate? How does he feel about it? Does anything he does or thinks at the end surprise you? What? (write a paragraph)
