Exile and the Kingdom by Albert Camus (Penguin Classics)

Description

“Exile and the Kingdom” (“L’Exil et le Royaume” in French) is a collection of short stories by the French-Algerian author and philosopher Albert Camus. The collection was first published in 1957, a few years before Camus won the Nobel Prize in Literature.

The stories in “Exile and the Kingdom” explore existential and philosophical themes, often examining the complexities of human relationships, the search for meaning, and the impact of existential dilemmas on individuals. The narratives are set in various locations, reflecting the idea of “exile” in different forms.

Some of the stories in this collection include:

1. “The Adulterous Woman” (“La Femme adultère”)
2. “The Renegade or a Confused Spirit” (“Le Renégat ou un esprit confus”)
3. “The Silent Men” (“Les Muets”)
4. “The Guest” (“L’Hôte”)
5. “The Artist at Work” (“Jonas ou l’artiste au travail”)

“The Guest” is particularly well-known and often studied for its exploration of moral responsibility and the consequences of choice.

Camus’s writing style in “Exile and the Kingdom” retains his characteristic philosophical depth and existentialist themes, making the collection a compelling read for those interested in his works. Each story offers a unique perspective on the human condition, and the collection as a whole reflects Camus’s exploration of the complexities of existence.