The central theme of the novel is existentialism.

The story revolves around the central character Meursault, an Algerian. He happens to be a French citizen who lives in North Africa. He is a man of the Mediterranean, though he hardly partakes of the traditional Mediterranean culture.

He kills an Arab man whom he recognizes in French Algiers.

There are two parts of the story: Meursault's first person narrative view before the murder and after the murder, respectively.

A Quick Guide to "The Stranger"
Copyright
Chapter One: Introduction
Chapter Two: Plot Summary
Chapter Three: Characters
Chapter Four: Complete Summary
Part One
Part Two
Chapter Five: Further Notes