The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus

A great example Camus puts forth as an example of an Absurd person is the famous fictional character Don Quixote. Don Quixote loves many women, not one. He travels from place to place, ever searching, ever failing. Some may interpret him as a womanizer, as a fraud, as a man without morals or intent. They could be right. but, if Camus’ interpretation is taken seriously, and is true, not only is Don Quixote a man with morals, he has the utmost moral character and is not a fraud. The Absurd person is one that CONSTANTLY fails to achieve absolute goals because they DO NOT EXIST. But, he has to be continuously reminded of this, as The Absurd comes into existence when a person becomes consciously aware, and this awareness only arises AFTER someone pursues an impossible goal, runs into that wall, and realizes his failure. Don Quixote is not a charlatan or womanizer but a man who truly loves. He continuously pursues that Ultimate Love that exists only in his mind. But, when he recognizes his failure, he doesn’t fall to pieces and cry, he doesn’t lose his head. He smiles and says, “Of course it isn’t, how silly!” and continues on with his life.

Camus begins the essay saying that the first, most important philosophical question is suicide. Without ultimate meaning, without an absolute Truth, why not end it all now? But, you see, there is still joy, there is still laughter, there is still art and beauty, there is still positive action and good conversation, there is delicious food and wonderful wine, and there is, as Don Quixote knows, another woman to love. Life does not lose is appeal because of the loss of the Ultimate.In fact, it earns its appeal for the first time.