- When we first started reading the book, we discussed how this translation preserves the French word "Maman" in reference to Meursault's mother. That word translates to somewhere between "mother" and "mommy." Other translators have rendered the first sentence differently. Stuart Gilbert translated it as "Mother died today."
- How do these different words impact our thinking about the book?
- Here is an interesting article about it, if you want to know more.
- Today we will look at two translations of the end of Part 1 - the one in the book (Ward) and the one referred to above (Stuart).
- Here is a link to the Stuart translation (available free online)
- Work with your partner to explore the similarities and differences.
- How does this look at the language impact our thinking about Meursault, or about the novel overall?
Meursault's Moral Compass
- What motivates him?
- What are his beliefs / values?
- What pushes him to action in this scene?
- How do others see him?
- Individually / Personally?
- Legally?
