What lesson does the story of Sisyphus teach?

The story of Sisyphus, a figure from Greek mythology, serves as a powerful allegory for the futility of endless tasks. In the myth, Sisyphus is condemned to roll a boulder up a hill only for it to roll back down each time he nears the top, forcing him to start again perpetually. This never-ending cycle emphasizes the idea that some efforts may be ultimately pointless, highlighting the struggle against the absurdity of existence.

In particular, the tale resonates deeply with existential themes, especially those articulated by philosophers like Albert Camus, who stated that one must imagine Sisyphus as happy despite his punishment. Through this lens, the story illustrates the human capacity to find meaning or acceptance even in tasks that seem pointless, reinforcing the concept that life may involve a series of challenging, repetitious endeavors that can feel futile.

While the other options suggest lessons on cleverness, patience, or loyalty, they don't capture the core theme presented in the story of Sisyphus, which centers around the repetitive nature of his task and the existential reflection it prompts regarding life's inherent struggles.