The myth of Sisyphus - Alex Gendler

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Sisyphus was both a clever ruler who made his city prosperous, and a devious tyrant who seduced his niece and killed visitors to show off his power. While his violation of the sacred hospitality tradition greatly angered the gods, it was Sisyphus’ reckless confidence that proved to be his downfall -- resulting in Zeus condemning him for all eternity. Alex Gendler shares the myth of Sisyphus.


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TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Alex Gendler
  • Director Draško Ivezić
  • Narrator Adrian Dannatt
  • Art Director Draško Ivezić
  • Storyboard Artist Draško Ivezić
  • Character Designer Draško Ivezić
  • Producer Draško Ivezić
  • Senior Animator Marko Dješka
  • Animator Lucia Borjas, Mirta Brkulj
  • Music Jure Buljević
  • Sound Designer Jure Buljević
  • Content Producer Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Producer Alex Rosenthal
  • Associate Producer Bethany Cutmore-Scott
Additional Resources for you to Explore
Read more on Sisyphus in Greek mythology and the cultural significance of his myth during the Renaissance.

And be sure to check out Albert Camus’s classic essay on Sisyphus as a modern absurd hero.

Customize this lesson

Create and share a new lesson based on this one.

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Alex Gendler
  • Director Draško Ivezić
  • Narrator Adrian Dannatt
  • Art Director Draško Ivezić
  • Storyboard Artist Draško Ivezić
  • Character Designer Draško Ivezić
  • Producer Draško Ivezić
  • Senior Animator Marko Dješka
  • Animator Lucia Borjas, Mirta Brkulj
  • Music Jure Buljević
  • Sound Designer Jure Buljević
  • Content Producer Gerta Xhelo
  • Editorial Producer Alex Rosenthal
  • Associate Producer Bethany Cutmore-Scott

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