Camus’ Theory of Absurdity The Myth of Sisyphus Camus’ Theory of Absurdity

The Philosophy of the Absurd One of the main themes of Camus’ philosophy is rebellion, but not in the sense of a full-fledged revolt. Sisyphus rebels, not in refusing to continue his arduous task, but in the fact that he refuses to accept the absurdity of his punishment. Man’s tragedy is his consciousness, his awareness of his own condition. Oedipus was always the pawn of fate, but his tragedy begins from the moment he knows the truth. Sisyphus teaches “there is no fate that can not be surmounted by scorn.”

What does it mean? Camus defines it as a confrontation between “rational” human beings and an “indifferent” universe. Despite our hopes, dreams, expectations and even our efforts, the world does not deliver what we expect, nor does it seem to care what becomes of us. Only personal experience is meaningful; meaning can not be found in others or outside forces. Mersualt accepts the indifference of the universe as “brotherly” in The Stranger. Death makes life absurd.

Sisyphus as a model Two possible readings: A. He devotes himself to his labors so entirely that he must be considered happy. Thus, the role of reflection, reason, is a problem B. He undertakes his task with resentment, and his resentment of the gods makes his life meaningful.

Camus’ Conclusion Either we find the meaning in our lives, or not at all. Both The Stranger and Sisyphus offer the notion that life is its own meaning—philosophical reflection does not give us meaning. Only insofar as we are engaged in our lives do our lives make sense.

Sources Dr. Robert Solomon, Professor of Business and Philosophy—University of Texas Camus, Albert. “The Myth of Sisyphus.”