Sunday, February 10, 2013

The Doctor-a static character: CRISTINA VALENCIA


Throughout the novel, Grand frequently speaks about Jeanne to Rieux; inevitably, Rieux unburdens his anxiousness or worries about his wife to Jeanne. A friend the first time in the novel that Rieux actually makes knows this his worries about his wife. Before this, Rieux portrayed a confident exterior in which it almost seemed as if he was able to fortell the future, and knew his wife would be fine—however, this was no the case.
            In secrecy, Rieux verifies to his friend and confidant that his “wife will not make it”. Surprisingly so, Jeanne does not act with surprise or shock. This is most likely because he was awaiting this situation; and also maybe because he has numbed himself from the pain death brings. After releasing a portion of the sentiments Rieux has been holding in for a long time, he quickly went back to work and transformed back into his usual, monotous self.
            Being almost finished with the novel, I question the reason as to why author, Albert Camus, wanted to include Rieux in the novel. Other than in the scene in which Rieux divulges his sentiments, he has really brought nothing to the table. His static, almost tiresome behavior really has me wondering the Camus’ motives or reasoning. Although I have found the book to be monotmous, certain characters like Cottard and Jeanne has brought a certain sense of diversity to the plot. Rieux, on the other hand, has contributed nothing, nothing at all. 

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