What lesson does the story of Sisyphus teach?

The story of Sisyphus, a figure from Greek mythology, teaches the futility of endless tasks through his eternal punishment of rolling a boulder up a hill, only for it to roll back down each time he reaches the top. This myth illustrates a profound sense of struggle and the inherent frustration in facing an unending cycle of labor without any hope of resolution or success.

The narrative serves as a powerful metaphor for the human condition, emphasizing how individuals often engage in repetitive tasks that seem ultimately pointless or unachievable. This resonates with themes of existentialism, where Sisyphus's plight reflects the struggles and absurdities of life itself. Rather than focusing on success or achievement, the lesson revolves around recognizing and accepting the nature of one's efforts, despite their inherent lack of ultimate purpose or reward.

While cleverness, patience, and loyalty are valuable traits, they do not capture the central lesson of Sisyphus's endless struggle, which is primarily about the futility that can accompany certain human endeavors. Thus, the correct answer encapsulates the essence of his myth, highlighting the existential reflection on the nature of work, struggle, and perseverance in the face of futility.