Is meaning self-generating? (Albert Camus, The Myth of Sisyphus)

Question 1

What is the absurd?

Answer 1

As humans, we desire purpose and meaning in a world that is meaningless.
This is the absurd: two incompatible ideas being put together.

The vacuum created by the gap between the search for transcendent meaning (not human made) and the inability to secure it.

Question 2

Why is Sisyphus an absurd hero?

Answer 2

He is conscious of the meaningless of his task and is content.
His act of revolt against Death proves his passion for life, despite its loss in inherent meaning.

The endless task:

1. The uphill struggle
2. The breaking point
3. The fall
4. The way down

Question 3

What does Camus mean when he claims “the struggle itself toward the heights is enough to fill a man’s heart. One must imagine Sisyphus happy” (p.123)?

Answer 3

Even in our everyday life, we find meaning in seemingly repetitive tasks and can be happy. We must imagine Sisyphus happy while doing his tasks even if they are meaningless because just being able to do something can be fulfilling enough.