Finding Meaning in the Absurd

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to textually analyze two works, namely The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus and Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka to describe the contradiction and similarities in the Idea of Absurdism in the two respective works. Absurdism has often been neglected as a philosophy of despair, while the truth is quite the contrary; this was elucidated by one of the major Absurdist writers, Albert Camus who describes Absurdism as the need to battle meaninglessness of life. Camus in his work The Myth of Sisyphus describes how the acceptance of the absurd will open new doors to look at life. Finding purpose in life is an act of meaninglessness that will leave one unhappy and strangled with question but Camus addresses that when you accept the absurdness it will be your rebellion against life. Through the portrayal of Sisyphus, who is punished to roll a huge stone up on the mountain Camus address that we should Imagine him happy even while he is punished because rather than finding meaning he has accepted the absurdness of life which is the reason he is happy. Often addressed as a pessimistic writer for his view on the world Franz Kafka has a similar point of view and that is depicted in his Novella Metamorphosis. While the protagonist is metamorphosed into a litter vermin, he is revolting against life, even when his own family hates him and his father hit him with a broomstick to get rid of him and his sister alludes that he is not her brother, trapped in his room by his own family from the beginning of the story. Gregor samsa the protagonist is revolting against life to make his own meaning to live. Even with Major aspects, of both the writers falling under the same roof, there are minor contradictions especially when it comes to the death of Gregor Samsa.