What significant event occurs at the beginning of "The Stranger"?

The beginning of "The Stranger" by Albert Camus centers around the death of Meursault's mother, which is a pivotal moment that sets the tone for the novel. This event introduces key themes such as absurdism and existentialism, reflecting Meursault's emotional detachment and indifference towards societal norms. The story opens with Meursault receiving a telegram about his mother's death and traveling to the village where she lived, highlighting his nonchalant reaction to a significant life event that typically evokes a strong emotional response. This lack of grief and his introspective narration create a sense of alienation that permeates his interactions and the subsequent plot.

The other options are events that do not occur at the beginning of the story. For instance, Meursault's promotion, falling in love, or losing his job happen later in the narrative and do not encapsulate the critical emotional and philosophical foundation that the death of his mother represents.