The Myth of Sisyphus
Subtitle: Renaissance Theories of Human Perfectibility
Publisher: Fairleigh Dickinson University Press
Published: June 30, 2007
Language: eng
Format: Hardcover
Number of pages: 614
ISBN-13: 9780838641163
Subjects: Literary studies: general; Topics in philosophy; History; Philosophy; History: World; Movements - Humanism; History & Surveys - Modern; Renaissance; Perfection; Sisyphus (Greek mythology); History & Surveys - General
Description: "The myth of Sisyphus symbolizes the archetypal process of becoming without the consolation of absolute achievement. It is both a poignant reflection of the human condition and a prominent framing text for classical, medieval, and renaissance theories of human perfectibility. In this unique reading of the myth through classical philosophies, pagan and Christian religious doctrines, and medieval and renaissance literature, we see Sisyphus, 'the most cunning of human beings,' attempting to transcend his imperfections empowered by his imagination to renew his faith in the infinite potentialities of human excellence"--Jacket.