|
|
Post by mjunious on Jun 6, 2024 14:45:25 GMT
I used to see this story as a way of saying that you can never escape punishment if you did something bad (like anger the gods), but the tale of Sisyphus displays many of the different branches of existentialism at various points in the story. After the inciting incident, Sisyphus' ways of dealing with the MANY punishments echos Buber's ideas that we must take an active role, regardless of any external forces, in shaping our existence. It would have been much easier for Sisyphus to accept his punishments, but he decided to (successfully) implore his wit to escape. Later, however, in the main crux of the story with the boulder, we see an Kafka-esque image of futility in a meaningless task, which may be the main point that is taken away from the story. Upon further reflection though, I can't help but think of Kierkegaard's idea that life can only be understood backwards, but must be lived forward, since Sisyphus literally has to push a boulder forward up a mountain only to, as the video says, "defiantly meet his fate" as he walks backwards down the mountain to begin again.
|
|
|
|
Post by jarelyrebollar on Jun 7, 2024 19:39:03 GMT
You make significant points within your post that I can make connections between different opinions of existentialism.
Initially, as you proposed, the myth of Sisyphus embodies Buber’s idea of actively shaping Sisyphus's existence by cleverly defying the Greek gods' punishments. This can reflect his refusal to accept fate.
Next, the image of Sisyphus pushing the boulder up the mountain is Kafka-esque, highlighting the futility and absurdity of his task. This also aligns with Camus’ notion of finding meaning in the struggle itself, despite its apparent pointlessness.
Also, your connection to Kierkegaard is compelling. Sisyphus’ endless task mirrors the human condition of understanding life retrospectively while living it forward, capturing Kierkegaard’s essence.
|
|
|
|
Post by meagangcurrie on Jun 12, 2024 17:53:57 GMT
I recognized the different strains of existentialism within the story and each one creates a different perspective. My question is, is Sisyphus really finding purpose in pushing the boulder? Is he determined to get the boulder over the hill or does he regret messing with the gods? What meaning does he find? Existentialism is still somewhat confusing to me, but the tale of Sisyphus provided me with another element regarding the philosophical concept.
|
|
