1. The Sun and Heat: The oppressive Algerian sun and heat are almost a character in the novel, creating an atmosphere of apathy and indifference. It's described as blinding, overwhelming, and draining, mirroring Meursault's emotional detachment. The heat contributes to his feeling of being trapped and alienated, adding to his sense of absurdity and disconnection from the world.
2. The Beach and the Murder: The beach, a place of leisure and escape, becomes the site of Meursault's impulsive act of killing the Arab. The hot, blinding sun intensifies the moment, making it feel almost surreal and disconnected from normal reality. This emphasizes the randomness and absurdity of the event, further highlighting the themes of existentialism and the meaninglessness of life.
3. The City and its Inhabitants: Algiers, a bustling colonial city, is portrayed as indifferent to Meursault and his fate. Its inhabitants are seen as strangers, their lives and concerns distant from his own. This reinforces Meursault's alienation and isolation, as he struggles to connect with a world that seems to have no place for him.
4. The Prison and the Trial: The prison, a cold and sterile place, is where Meursault's isolation intensifies. The trial, a stage where social and moral values clash, further underlines his detachment from societal norms. The court's obsession with his lack of remorse highlights the absurdity of a system that judges emotions rather than actions.
5. The Algerian Landscape: The desert and the sea, two contrasting landscapes, are presented as powerful forces in Meursault's life. The vastness and indifference of the desert mirror his own sense of insignificance, while the endlessness of the sea suggests a possibility of escape from the confines of societal expectations.
In summary: The setting in "The Stranger" is more than just a backdrop; it actively shapes the narrative, influencing Meursault's emotions and actions. The oppressive sun, the indifferent city, and the stark landscapes all contribute to the novel's exploration of themes like absurdity, alienation, and the search for meaning in a meaningless world.