Abstract
This Independent Study Thesis focuses on whether or not one should have faith, based on different recommendations by Albert Camus and Søren Kierkegaard, and investigates how Walker Percy’s own philosophies and novels answer that question. By focusing on Percy’s philosophy of faith, as well as the process of faith he presents in his novels, I will show how Percy speaks to both Camus and Kierkegaard by defending faith as a reasonable and fulfilling endeavor. Therefore, this thesis is separated into two sections. The first section overviews the debate between Albert Camus and Søren Kierkegaard, and how Walker Percy’s philosophy answers to both of them. The second part focuses on his novels, and how they relate and demonstrate the philosophical notions of Camus and Kierkegaard to lead readers through a process that ultimately suggests faith.
Advisor
Hustwit, Ronald
Second Advisor
Prendergast, Maria
Department
English; Philosophy
Recommended Citation
DeTar, Emily, "Absurdity with God: Faith in Walker Percy's Novels" (2012). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 464.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/464
Disciplines
Literature in English, North America | Philosophy
Keywords
exploring faith in existentialist philosophies
Publication Date
2012
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2012 Emily DeTar