The Guest - Albert Camus

This story had an interesting feel to it. The reader is kept on edge with the descriptions of the snowy wasteland and the deserted school. There is also a tense feeling when the prisoner is depicted as "restless and rebellious." (2575) But when Daru and the Arab are left aloe, they dine together and sleep in the same room, tow things that usually would signify a friendship. Daru gives the man the option of walking to the prison and turning himself in, or escaping to the hills and residing with nomads. The Arab surprisingly, after a moment's hesitation, is seen walking in the direction of the prison. When Daru returns to this school house, there is a message in the chalkboard that reads, "You handed over our brother. You will pay for this." Even though Daru gave the man an option to be free, he is targeted by the enemies who don't know the full story. This part of the story involves the theme of revenge. There is also a theme of honor, illustrated in the line, "That man's stupid crime revolted him, but to hand him over was contrary to honor." (2581) As much as Daru hated that this man was a killer, to turn him in for his crime went against his beliefs.