Albert Camus: From the Absurd to Revolt

Adopting an interdisciplinary approach that encompasses philosophy, literature, politics, and history, John Foley examines the full breadth of Camus’ ideas to provide a rigorous guide to his political and philosophical thought, making a significant contribution to current debates in Camus research. Foley argues that Camus’ thought can best be understood through analysis of the concepts of the absurd and revolt and the relationship between them. The book includes a detailed discussion of Camus’ writings for the newspaper Combat, a systematic analysis of the discussion of the moral legitimacy of political violence and terrorism, a reassessment of the prevailing postcolonial critique of Camus’ humanism, and a sustained analysis of Camus’ most commonly neglected work, L'Homme revolte (The Rebel). Written with sufficient detail and clarity to satisfy both academic and student audiences, Albert Camus: From the Absurd to Revolt is an important discussion and defence of Camus’ philosophical thought.