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Overview

The Plague, published in 1947 by French author and philosopher Albert Camus, is a novel that explores the human condition through the lens of an epidemic. The story is set in the Algerian city of Oran, which is quarantined after an outbreak of bubonic plague. The novel’s protagonist, Dr. Bernard Rieux, works tirelessly to combat the disease and care for the sick, all while grappling with the existential questions that arise in the face of suffering and death. The novel reflects on the complexities of morality, existentialism, and the resilience of the human spirit. 

Explore a plot summary, a character list, and mini essays. Or, learn more by studying SparkNotes guides to other works by Albert Camus.

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