Icarus-Narcissus-Sisyphus Test

The Icarus–Narcissus–Sisyphus Test explores the timeless struggles of human nature through the lens of classical mythology. Inspired by a viral internet diagram that captured the imagination of thousands, this assessment offers a structured way to reflect on your motivational drives, emotional habits, and existential tendencies. By aligning you with three mythological figures—each representing a symbolic force—the test invites self-discovery in an original and thought-provoking way.

Rather than rigidly typing you into a single category, the test places you within a triangle defined by three iconic myths. Icarus, with his fiery ambition and desire to transcend human limits, represents the risks and rewards of striving too high. Narcissus embodies self-reflection turned inward—beautiful but isolating—where identity becomes entangled with perception and image. Sisyphus, the eternal laborer, symbolizes perseverance and meaning found not in success, but in the act of enduring itself.

These myths are not chosen at random. They reflect archetypes that have resonated across cultures and generations because they touch core aspects of the human condition. Whether we recognize it or not, most of us live out some version of these narratives—pushing too far, turning too inward, or grinding endlessly in the face of resistance. The triangle allows us to map these tendencies together, showing how they intersect and compete within each of us.

What makes this test especially unique is that it doesn't measure pathology or diagnose traits as inherently "good" or "bad." Instead, it frames each archetype as both a strength and a trap. Ambition can drive innovation or lead to downfall. Self-reflection can deepen wisdom or become narcissistic stagnation. Endurance can bring quiet strength or lead to soul-crushing repetition. The aim of the test is not to judge, but to reveal—to highlight the myth you may be living without realizing it.

Scoring is based on a 30-item Likert scale divided equally among the three archetypes, with both positively and negatively keyed items. This balanced approach allows for a more nuanced view of your tendencies, avoiding simple overidentification with any one character. After completing the test, your result will place you somewhere within the triangle, reflecting how much of each archetype is present in your psychological profile.

The test has become a popular way for people to reflect on their behavior, especially in online communities where myth, personality, and self-awareness converge. It’s been shared widely for its ability to capture complicated emotions and motivations in a format that’s both intuitive and profound.

Ultimately, this isn’t just a quiz—it’s a mirror. Whether you’re burning with ambition, lost in self-perception, or carrying a heavy burden without end, the test invites you to pause, reflect, and maybe even laugh at the strange myth you’ve made of your life. And like all good myths, it reminds us: we are not alone in our struggles.