The character active in Meursault appears a consequence of his upbringing and family surroundings. Therefore, one must observe the family elements when considering Meursault's personality and compare that to his contribution to society. It is clear from The Stranger, that Meursault had no father figure in his life. He comments that he never knew his father. Furthermore, it appears possible that Meursault's current personality resulted from losing his mother to the "old peoples home." This logic comes from the quote on page 41 where Meursault presents, "When I was a student, I had lots of ambitions like that (moving to Paris). But when I had to give up my studies I learned very quickly that none of it really mattered." From this, it seems that Meursault did not always exhibit the personality that is evident in the book. There must have been an event that forced him to give up "his studies." One possible event was losing his mom to the old people's home. If that was such a traumatic event that it changed his entire personality, then it would also explain why he appeared so indifferent at his mothers actual death. On page 44, the novel reads, "It occurred to me that anyway one more Sunday was over, that Maman was buried now, that I was going back to work, and that, really, nothing had changed." If nothing had changed with Maman's death then the major change and loss of her must have occurred when Meursault lost Maman to the home. Thus, losing his mother to the home resulted in a drastic change in personality giving him the characteristics presented during The Stranger.
Therefore, as one observes Meursault's contribution and affect on society, his family history must be considered. We see during the novel that Meursault's personality of indifference brings about both positive and negative results on society. His personality of indifference appears evident on the last pages of the book when Meursault comments, "I opened myself to the gentle indifference of the world. Finding it so much like myself- so like a brother, really." Furthermore, Meursault says, "I explained to him, however, that my nature was such that my physical needs got in the way of my feelings." (p65) On one hand, this personality appears to have a positive result in society. He does not pass judgment on others. He is honest in everything he says. He lives in the moment. On the other hand, his personality presents dangers for society. His indifference prevents him from connecting on a deeper level with others (besides physical). " I told her it (love) didn't mean anything." Furthermore, this personality type prevents him from feeling any real remorse or following a strong moral code. Through the language used, it seems that Meursault killed the Arab by chance or "because the sun made me." Such a personality that can be persuaded so easily is also a danger to society as much as it is a breath of fresh air. That is why he is condemned to death.
In conclusion, it appears that the lack or loss of parental figures can result in personalities that develop defense mechanisms to protect against the hurt of loss. These defense mechanisms may appear in the form of detachment or indifference so as not to feel let down. When one doesn't really care about anyone or anything how can he or she feel hurt. Therefore, with the loss of a parental figure, it seems possible that detachment may occur resulting in both praiseworthy and detestable actions. Familial loss can be dangerous for society.
