Four decades after his death, Albert Camus (1913-1960) is still regarded as one of the most influential intellectuals of the twentieth century. In Camus: Portrait of a Moralist, Stephen Eric Bronner illuminates the writer's life and work. Balancing art, politics, and philosophy, this study presents fresh perspectives on Camus's fiction, drama, and philosophical writings, and sheds new light on the cultural, political, and historical context within which he wrote. Bronner's new and often innovative readings of the major works--from The Stranger, The Myth of Sisyphus, Caligula, The plague, and The Fall to the posthumously published The First Man--unite Camus's aesthetic concerns with his political beliefs.
Editorial Reviews
“A model of a kind of intelligent writing that should be in greater supply. Bronner manages judiciously to combine an appreciation for the strengths of Camus and nonrancorous criticism of his weaknesses....As a personal and opinionated book, it invites the reader into an engaging and informative dialogue.” —American Political Science Review
“This concise, lively, and remarkably evenhanded treatment of the life and work of Albert Camus weaves together biography, philosophical analysis, and political commentary.”—Science & Society
About the Author
Stephen Eric Bronner is distinguished professor of political science and director of global relations at the Center for the Study of Genocide and Human Rights at Rutgers University.
