Discussion 4: Exploring Camus’ “The Guest”
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Although he rejected the label, Albert Camus’ work is often associated with existentialism, particularly concerning “its distinctive assessment of the human condition and its search for authentic beliefs and values” (Puchner et al. B-780). In his story “The Guest,” Camus offers a presentation of these points as he explores the ideas of moral responsibility, personal freedom, and the difficulty of having to choose between one’s own ethics and political realities. Considering these ideas, respond to the following questions:
Who is Daru, where does he live, and what do readers learn about him from the environment he lives in?
1–Who is Balducci, and what does he demand from Daru (6 points)?
2–How does Balducci’s order create a dilemma for Daru (6 points)?
3–How does Daru resolve his dilemma, and do you think he has done this ethically (6 points)?
4–If you were in Daru’s situation, would you have done anything different than Daru? Explain your thoughts on this. (6 points)
Remember to respond meaningfully to at least two other students’ posts to receive full credit for the discussion assignment (6 points).
Use of AI: This assignment requires that you think this story through independently and authentically as you engage with the story. Provide your own thoughts and ideas rather than using an AI tool.
