The Rebel by Albert Camus

      

 

 

 

 

 

 

    
    The Rebel by Albert Camus was published in 1951, following World War II. It delves into rebellion and the question of "What is justice?". As also seen in his work The Myth of Sisyphus, he delves into the concept of the "absurd". The absurd describes a clash between our desires as humans, and the meaninglessness of the universe, and that everything lacks inherent purpose. As Camus describes, it's a feeling that life and the universe are irrational. People must create their own meaning and values in life.

     This book is an exploration of historical figures that were seen as "rebels", such as the philosophers Nietzsche and Hegel. Throughout the book, Camus points out that rebellion is quite complicated. If taken too far, it can mirror everything that is being fought against. Camus poses the question of whether rebellion is the right thing, or if there is a line between what many perceive as justice and revenge. But as Camus is an absurdist, this is particularly interesting. 

     Camus doesn't reject the existence of right and wrong, but takes a more subjective approach to the thought of morality and what is moral. As seen in The Rebel, he is wary of rigid ideologies, ones that outline specific moral codes in society. He explains how this leads to oppressive consequences that instead hurt, rather than help. 

    This book poses questions about if we should rebel against things perceived as unfair, and if there is a "prefect" way to go about it. As is a common theme in Camus' works, it leaves us pondering on these big ideas, such as what really is right and wrong.

 

-Asmara