Self Discovery in Dostoevskys Crime and Punishment and...

Self Discovery in Dostoevskys Crime and Punishment and Camus The Outsider In every society, it is important for individuals to adhere to a set of principles in order to maintain order. In Dostoyevskys Crime and Punishment and Camus The Outsider , however, both protagonists ignored the values of their society. Raskolnikov and Meursault felt their own beliefs were significant, and through their actions they were able to express them. As a result, one man was judged as a social deviant, while the other man suffered psychologically. Through dealing with this strife, Raskolnikov and Meursault gained a better understanding of their values and personal worth. In the beginning both†¦show more content†¦In addition, Meursault felt that nothing really mattered6. He was willing to be transferred to the Paris branch of his office, but Algiers would do for him as well; he was willing to marry Marie, but he would have married anyone else just as easily; and he was willing to write Raymonds letter for the simple reason that he had no reason not to please him7. This honest and nonchalant way of looking at things was the basis of Meursaults essence. He, and Raskolnikov, had a general sense of who they were; based not on societys principles but their own. After they committed their crimes, Raskolnikov and Meursault were forced to question their beliefs. Before the murder, Raskolnikov had a dream. In it, a mare was beaten to death by its enraged master, while a boy tried to defend it8. Now after his guilt had begun already9, Raskolnikov questioned whether he was the man who could step over barriers 10 without being punished or if he was the boy, filled with compassion and regret. I am contemptible and have nothing in me. If I had succeeded I should have been crowned with glory, but now Im trapped. I fail to understand why bombarding people by regular siege is more honorable...I am further than ever from seeing what I did asShow MoreRelatedExistentialism vs Essentialism23287 Words   |  94 Pages------------------------------------------------- Essentialism vs. Existentialism Essentialism: A belief that things have a set of characteristics that make them what they are, amp; that the task of science and philosophy is their discovery amp; expression; the doctrine that essence is prior to existence While, Existentialism:A philosophical theory or approach, that emphasizes the existence of the individual person as a free amp; responsible agent, determining their own