Albert Camus ​

Albert Camus was a French philosopher, author, and journalist. He was one of the most influential authors of the 20th century. His most famous works include "The Stranger", "The Plague", and "The Fall". He won the Nobel Prize in Literature at the age of 44 in 1957, the second-youngest recipient in history.

Quick Facts ​

• His works have been translated into more than 40 languages.
• He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature at the age of 44 in 1957.
• His best-known works are The Stranger, The Plague, and The Fall.
• He is often associated with existentialism, but he refused this label.
• His work continues to be influential in the fields of philosophy, literature, and sociology.

Background ​

Camus was born in 1913 in Mondovi, Algeria, a then French colony. His father died in World War I, and he was raised by his single mother in poor, working-class conditions, which greatly influenced his outlook on life and formed the basis for his philosophy of Absurdism. He attended the University of Algiers and studied philosophy, also playing as the goalkeeper for the university football team. After contracting tuberculosis in 1930, he was forced to end his sports career. He joined the French Communist Party in 1935 but was expelled in 1937. He began his writing career with the release of his first book, The Stranger, in 1942. Over the years, he wrote numerous essays, novels, and plays. In 1957, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. He died in a car accident in 1960.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Camus's writing style is often defined by its philosophical depth, introspection, and exploration of existentialism. His work is characterized by its exploration of the human condition and moral dilemmas, set against a backdrop of absurdity and despair. Camus's thought-provoking narratives have had a significant impact on generations of readers and writers, establishing him as one of the key figures in 20th-century literature.

Notable Works ​

• The Stranger (1942)
• The Plague (1947)
• The Fall (1956)
• The Myth of Sisyphus (1942)