The Stranger #3

Meursault's feelings toward the external world continue to be very indifferent. His values are his own; he does not allow society to dictate them. For example, Meursault views religion with this indifference. During Meursault's murder trial, when the magistrate waves a crucifix in Meursault's face, Meursault reports to the reader that the magistrate speaks very "quickly and passionately" of his profound faith in God (68). While Meursault's narration is usually fairly bland, these two adverbs create a clear image of the magistrate that contrasts strongly with the relaxed and measured movements of Meursault. As a result, the magistrate appears juvenile in his proclamation of his faith. By making a mockery of a man of faith, Meursault communicates his disinterest in religion and its lack of rationality and reason. He follows his own code of morals rather than that of any organized religion.