Happiness and the Absurd

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that in the essay "Myth of Sisyphus" Albert Camus writes, "One must imagine Sisyphus is happy." This paper cites existential evidence in an attempt to back up such a seemingly outlandish statement. This essay offers a brief synopsis of the work while analyzing and diving into the philosophy behind the 'Myth of Sisyphus' by applying existentialism, the human condition and absurdity to the myth.

From the Paper:

"In his allegorical retelling of the myth of Sisyphus, Camus likens the human condition to that of Sisyphus (who is condemned to the ceaseless and seemingly purposeless task of pushing a rock up a hill). Camus offers both a critique of the self-condemning meaningless toil of our own lives, but also points to our only freedom and salvation, or our "conscious" freedom (i.e., our ability to choose), as the answer to it. My only contention with Camus's parallel is the fact that Sisyphus is enslaved to this ceaseless task by fault of his own. For Sisyphus, it is a punishment, but what is it that we are being reprimanded for? Why am I here now, enduring this scrutinizing rollercoaster ride of highs and lows? After closer dissection of his essay, one must find their self in opposition to Camus's depiction of the human condition; unlike Sisyphus, we have done nothing to justify the conditions of such torture."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Myth of Sisyphus, Albert Camus

More papers on Happiness and the Absurd:

• Essay # 71188 : "Happy Hour"
• Comparison Essay # 128626 : "Jane Eyre" and "The Grass Is Singing"
• Book Review # 85801 : "Miss Lonelyhearts" and "The Day of the Locust" "

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