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Albert Camus

A Very Short Introduction

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Albert Camus

By: Oliver Gloag
Narrated by: Graham Halstead
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Few would question that Albert Camus (1913-1960), novelist, playwright, philosopher and journalist, is a major cultural icon. His widely quoted works have led to countless movie adaptions, graphic novels, pop songs, and even t-shirts.

In this Very Short Introduction, Oliver Gloag chronicles the inspiring story of Camus' life. From a poor fatherless settler in French-Algeria to the winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature, Gloag offers a comprehensive view of Camus' major works and interventions, including his notion of the absurd and revolt, as well as his highly original concept of pure happiness through unity with nature called "bonheur". This original introduction also addresses debates on coloniality, which have arisen around Camus' work.

Gloag presents Camus in all his complexity a staunch defender of many progressive causes, fiercely attached to his French-Algerian roots, a writer of enormous talent and social awareness plagued by self-doubt, and a crucially relevant author whose major works continue to significantly impact our views on contemporary issues and events.

©2020 Oliver Gloag (P)2020 Tantor Literary History & Criticism Philosophy
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Less a study of the man, more a criticism of French colloquialism, written by someone who hates Camus! I jest somewhat, but this is a deeply historical/political analysis of Camus and of ‘French Algeria’ and makes a compelling case as to why should be. Fascinating and enlightening

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Not to fault the book, but I’d find this introduction to be more rewarding after having read some of Camus’ work.

Read The Stranger and/or other of his works and then read the introduction to make sense of them individually and as a whole. Using this as a jumping point could deter some from drawing their own conclusions especially when it will spoil the plot of many of Camus’ novels and plays.

Great starting point… once you’ve got yourself started

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