What philosophical movement is closely associated with "The Stranger" by Albert Camus?

"The Stranger" by Albert Camus is closely associated with existentialism, a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice. The main character, Meursault, embodies many of the core tenets of existentialism, particularly the idea of absurdism—the conflict between humans' search for meaning in a universe that is indifferent to their struggles. Meursault's actions and his emotional detachment reflect existential themes such as the absurdity of life, the insignificance of social norms, and the importance of personal authenticity.

In contrast, while rationalism focuses on reason as the primary source of knowledge, surrealism emphasizes the exploration of dreams and the unconscious, often creating fantastical imagery. Romanticism, with its focus on emotion and nature, does not align with the themes present in Camus's work, which centers around the absurd nature of existence and the individual's confrontation with it. Therefore, existentialism is the philosophical movement that best encapsulates the themes and questions raised in "The Stranger."