The Myth of Sisyphus and Other Essays

Length: 152 pages

Published: 1942-01-01

From: France

By: Albert Camus

Subjects: Absurdism, Existentialism

isbn: 0-679-73373-6

Goodreads

About

At its core, The Myth of Sisyphus and Other Essays examines the philosophical concept of the absurd. Camus argues that life lacks inherent meaning and purpose, yet humans relentlessly seek meaning despite this inherent absurdity. The title essay, The Myth of Sisyphus, serves as the centerpiece of the book and presents the metaphor of Sisyphus, a figure from Greek mythology condemned to roll a boulder uphill only to watch it roll back down, as a representation of the human condition. Camus delves into the question of whether life is worth living in the face of this absurdity. He explores various philosophical perspectives and confronts existentialist ideas, nihilism, and the search for transcendence. Camus proposes that individuals can rebel against the absurd and find meaning in the present moment through acts of defiance, acceptance, and embracing life's experiences. The book also contains several other essays that further delve into Camus' philosophy. These essays touch upon topics such as suicide, the nature of rebellion, the relationship between freedom and art, and the idea of the "absurd man" who embraces life's challenges and contradictions. The Myth of Sisyphus and Other Essays is renowned for its thought-provoking exploration of existential themes, its lucid prose, and its significant contributions to the philosophy of absurdism. It continues to captivate readers and remains a seminal work in existentialist literature, inviting contemplation about the meaning and purpose of human existence.