The main characters of The Stranger and Siddhartha, Monsieur Meursault and Siddhartha, respectively, each have a unique progression in the nature of their lives, and upon close contact with death contemplate their lives and are willing to live again. During their journeys through life, Meursault and Siddhartha go through a series of unique experience that would shape their future, and would eventually lead to self-realization. At one point, each character cavorts with a woman, and had sexual experiences with her. They also perform corrupt practices, in which Meursault kills a man and Siddhartha indulges in the sinful aspects of being a rich man. Both stories are filled with their own distinctive settings, influential characters, and other external stimuli that would mold their development.

At the beginning of Siddhartha, the setting includes himself living with his family, learning from the Brahmin, and "contemplating and meditating"(Hesse 3) with Govinda, "his...