EXPLORING EXISTENTIAL PHILOSOPHY THROUGH ZEBI:A HEIDEGGERIAN READING OF TARIQ RAHMAN’S THE BURDEN OF SISYPHUS

Abstract

This research explores existential philosophy in Tariq Rahman’s short story The Burden of Sisyphus (2024). It focuses on the main character, Zebi, and how his repeated struggles in life reflect the ideas of German philosopher Martin Heidegger. The study uses a qualitative method and analyzes the story through Heidegger’s concepts such as Dasein (being-there), authenticity, and being-towards-death. The findings show that the story reflects the human condition of living with confusion, burden, and the search for meaning. This research helps us understand how Pakistani literature can express deep philosophical ideas about life and existence.