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The Myth of Sisyphus

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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus explores the theme of existentialism and the human search for meaning in an indifferent universe. Camus delves into the idea of the absurd, comparing the endless struggle of Sisyphus to human life, urging readers to find value and purpose despite inherent futility.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy deep, philosophical explorations of human existence and the search for meaning. Albert Camus offers profound insights into the absurdity of life and how we can confront it with resilience and defiance.

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The Myth of Sisyphus

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

In The Myth of Sisyphus, Albert Camus delves deeply into the human condition, orienting his philosophical exploration around the timeless myth of Sisyphus, a man condemned by the gods to roll a boulder up a mountain only to watch it roll back down, endlessly repeating this futile task. Through this allegory, Camus examines the absurd nature of human existence, highlighting the struggle to find meaning in a world devoid of purpose. Yet, within this context of absurdity, he argues that one can still find joy and rebellion against the meaninglessness of life.

Throughout history, some books have changed the world. They have transformed the way we see ourselves—and each other. They have inspired debate, dissent, war, and revolution. They have enlightened, outraged, provoked, and comforted. They have enriched lives—and destroyed them. Now Penguin brings you the works of the great thinkers, pioneers, radicals, and visionaries whose ideas shook civilization and helped make us who we are today.

Inspired by the myth of a man condemned to ceaselessly push a rock up a mountain and watch it roll back to the valley below, The Myth of Sisyphus transformed twentieth-century philosophy with its impassioned argument for the value of life in a world without religious meaning. Camus' essay offers a profound statement on the human spirit and the power found in the continuous search for expression and personal meaning, even when faced with the absurd. As he concludes, "The struggle itself... is enough to fill a man's heart. One must imagine Sisyphus happy."

The Myth of Sisyphus is a cornerstone in existential philosophy and is indispensable for those looking to understand the depths of human resilience and the drive to forge meaning in an inherently meaningless universe. Its thought-provoking discourse remains as relevant today as it was upon its initial publication, challenging readers to confront the limits of human existence and celebrate the perpetual quest for understanding.

Series: Penguin Great Ideas

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus receives praise for its profound philosophical insights, particularly regarding existentialism and the human condition. Critics highlight its compelling exploration of absurdity and the author's lucid, thought-provoking prose. Readers appreciate its depth, though some find its concepts challenging.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141023991

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 25 August 2005

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 8.0mm

Width: 111.0mm

Height: 179.0mm

Weight: 91g

Pages: 144

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About the Author

Albert Camus (1913-60) grew up in a working-class neighbourhood in Algiers. He studied philosophy at the University of Algiers, and became a journalist. His most important works include The Outsider, The Myth of Sisyphus, The Plague and The Fall. After the occupation of France by the Germans in 1941, Camus became one of the intellectual leaders of the Resistance movement. He was killed in a road accident, and his last unfinished novel, The First Man, appeared posthumously.

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