LAST CLASS… …we grappled with understanding essential ideas of existentialism. Please take out your notes from that class and review them.

TODAY… We will continue discussing existentialism: • Camus’ Myth of Sisyphus • Esslin Redux: Existential drama And you will begin your own reflection on these readings and discussions.

The Myth of Sisyphus Book-length essay by Albert Camus Published 1942 Posits the idea that the only serious philosophical question is whether or not life is worth living Also deals with “the absurd”…

“absurd,” in colloquial usage: ridiculous, ludicrous, outrageous, foolish. Etymology of “absurd”: from Latin “absurdus,” meaning “out of tune” or “out of harmony” or “dissonant” “The absurd,” in philosophy: the conflict between (1) the human instinct/need to seek meaning and (2) the impossibility of finding such meaning in a post-Nietzschean, meaningless universe.

Factual Clarifications/Comprehension: What did Sisyphus do to incur the gods’ punishment ? How is he punished? During what moment of his punishment does Sisyphus most interest Camus, and why (p. 121)? According to Camus, what makes the myth of Sisyphus tragic (p. 121)? Similarly, when does Oedipus’ story become tragic (p. 122)?  

Further Discussion: Camus identifies Sisyphus as “the absurd hero.” What does he mean?    What does Camus means when he says in the final line that “One must imagine Sisyphus happy”?   Relate this essay excerpt (and/or all your existentialism discussions) to Waiting for Godot.

Return to Esslin’s Theatre of the Absurd: Re-read pages 23-25 (end at “…Existentialist theatre” halfway down page 25). According to Esslin, how does theatre of the absurd differ from other plays that explore existentialist themes?

Homework: Write a reflection on your readings and discussion of existentialism. (Details are on the assignment sheet.)