A tríade pronominal na obra O Estrangeiro, de Albert Camus: uma intersecção entre os estudos da linguagem, da filosofia e da literatura

Abstract

This thesis explores a pronominal discussion at the intersection of linguistic, literary, and philosophical studies, focusing on pronouns and their implications for subjectivity and human experience. Analyzing language from Émile Benveniste’s perspective means addressing the subject, their subjectivity, and their relationship with the world. Drawing on theorists relevant to the pronominal triad and the notions of subjectivity and human experience, such as Benveniste (2005; 2006) and Dufour (2000), this research establishes a foundation for theorizing pronominal studies across different fields of knowledge. The dissertation argues that analyzing linguistic markers paves the way for literary and philosophical debates on the subject, the world, and the (lack of) otherness. Investigating pronouns in a literary context also entails investigating the human being, their anxieties, and their relationship with reality and death, as human experience is always mediated by language. Specifically, this dissertation examines the intersubjective process of I (first person) and you (second person) in Albert Camus’ The Stranger (1942), as well as the role of he (third person) through the main character, Meursault. The character-narrator constructs his narrative by alternating between monologue and dialogue, reflecting different dimensions of his relationship with the world. This dynamic seeks to highlight, within this study, the tension between the I and societal expectations. Grounded in the founding principles of Émile Benveniste’s thought, this research explores the theorization of the pronouns I, you, and he, emphasizing their relevance in the constitution of subjectivity. The analysis further investigates how language shapes and renews society, establishing a connection between Benveniste’s theorization and literature to discuss not only the role of linguistic analysis in literary works but also the philosophical discussion emerging from the analysis of Meursault’s character. His portrayal stages the concepts of the absurd and revolt—philosophical themes on human existence discussed by Albert Camus in The Myth of Sisyphus (1942) and The Rebel (1951). The discussion is supported by the idea of reversibility between I and you, which legitimizes the subject’s position in enunciation as the means through which language becomes discourse. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of language as a mediator of reality and subjectivity and demonstrates how pronominal analysis can open new perspectives in literary and philosophical fields.