The Weight of Addiction: Titian’s ‘Sisyphus’

Reaching Within: What traditional art offers the heart

A detail from Titian's “Sisyphus.” Oil on Canvas, 93.3 inches by 85 inches. Prado Museum, Madrid, Spain. Public Domain

Sometimes we find ourselves addicted to substances, emotions, and ways of thinking that keep us far from experiencing any semblance of inner peace.

I came across a painting by Titian of Sisyphus that made me reflect on the nature of our addictions.

Sisyphus Twice Cheats Death

In Greek legend, Sisyphus was the sly and deceitful king of Corinth. He helped Corinth prosper commercially, but he often refused to show guests to his city the decency and hospitality required by Zeus. He would even kill his guests to prove that he was a king to be feared.