The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert CamusAlbert Camus' essay, "The Myth of Sisyphus" is an insightful analysis of the classic work "The Myth of Sisyphus ". In some ways, Camus's view of Sisyphus may seem quite accurate and in line with the original text, but based on Camus' interpretation of the rightness of Sisyphus's punishment, it is clear that the writer also has different ideas. Camus concludes that this punishment does not have the effect intended by the Gods and that ultimately the tragic hero must be considered "happy". This is its greatest departure from the intention of the original myth in which the reader feels that Sisyphus' punishment can be considered appropriate and just. As punishment for repeatedly outwitting the gods, Sisyphus is forced to roll away a large boulder. up a steep hill only to roll it back down each time he reaches the top, forever doomed to repeat the process over and over again. Is it on this punishment that Camus focuses the most, like the theme of Sisyphus? the deception only arises to give the reader insight into the story. It is, however, unusual that Camus considers this punishment as an "unspeakable punishment in which the whole being strives to accomplish nothing", and that he at the same time supposes that; “The struggle itself to the heights is enough to fill a man’s heart.” The gratification that can be found through hard work could certainly be considered an accomplishment, but it's hard to see how this relates to Sisyphus. Camus states that “today’s worker works every day of his life on the same tasks” and that his fate is “no less absurd”. If a man whistles while doing his laborious work, it is only because it is assumed that the fruits...... middle of paper...... that the text was intended to represent. Camus states that “myths are made so that the imagination gives them life” and he surely benefits from it. If it is true that Sisyphus truly owns his destiny and is the master of his own “absurdity”? universe, then this must be considered his greatest punishment of all, because it doesn't amount to much, and as Camus himself pointed out, "the rock always rolls." ? Lives Through Literature A Thematic Anthology (3rd ed.). Helane Levine Keating and Walter Levy. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2001. 1042-43. Camus, Albert. ?The myth of Sisyphus.? Lives Through Literature A Thematic Anthology (3rd ed.). Helane Levine Keating and Walter Levy. New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2001. 1044-46.