Topic: Mersault's Existentialist Nature Related to That of an Animal
             Throughout the development of Mersault's character it becomes apparent that he relies upon animal instinct versus the more normal aspects of human nature. This animalistic approach to his environment helps to accentuate his existentialist view of the world.
             Animals only rely on their instincts, just as Meursault does. He has a difficult time feeling emotions such as regret and empathy. His animal instincts are clear on page one. Meursault is uncommitted and indifferent when he hears of his mother's death. Likewise, when it is old enough, an animal leaves its family and never comes back.
             Because an animal lives only in the present, it cannot feel regret. In the same way, Meursault has a hard time feeling any remorse for his past actions. Because of this, the jury misconstrues his personality to be murderous at Meursault's trial.
             For Meursault, marriage holds little importance. Similarly, marriage is nonexistent in the animal kingdom. Like an animal, Meursault is passionate about dating women, but only in a physical way. Even when Meursault is in jail, he desires, not Marie, but women in general. Although he feels the drive to mate, he has no yearning for monogamy. Equally, the focus of an animal is on the current physical need, not the emotional one.
             Another beast-like quality that Meursault possesses is his remarkable impulse to tell the truth. One example is when he says, "I told her it didn't mean anything, but I probably didn't love her." (Page 41) Most people in Meursault's position would lie to a woman who asked if he loved her. They would be afraid of losing their chances at sleeping with her if they said no. Like Meursault, an animal cannot lie. There is no possible way for an animal not to be completely honest with every aspect of their li
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