The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus
This book is a philosophical essay that explores the concept of absurdity, and how individuals should respond to life's inherent meaninglessness. It posits that life is essentially absurd due to the conflict between our desire for understanding and the chaotic, indifferent universe. The author argues that the only proper response to this absurdity is to live life to its fullest, embracing and rebelling against the absurdity, rather than resorting to suicide or turning to religion or philosophy for false comfort. The story of Sisyphus, condemned to eternally roll a boulder up a hill only for it to roll back down, is used as a metaphor for the human condition.
The 658th greatest book of all time
- Published
- 1942
- Nationality
- French
- Type
- Nonfiction
- Pages
- 90-160
- Words
- 35,500
- Original Language
- French
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This book is on the following lists:
- 36th on The 100 Best Non-Fiction Books of the Century (National Review)
- 1121st on Our Users' Favorite Books of All Time (The Greatest Books Users)
- The Bigger Read List (English PEN)
- The Hundred Most Influential Books Since The War (WW2) (Central and East European Publishing Project)
- 72 Philosophy Books Everyone Should Read (The Institute of Art and Ideas)