Part 2, Introduction and Sections 1, 2 and 3 Summary and Analysis

"Metaphysical Rebellion"

The author defines this sort of rebellion as that experienced by man because of his frustration with the universe (as opposed to individualized rebellion felt by a slave towards its master). The result of metaphysical rebellion, the author suggests, is that humanity comes to realize it has to take responsibility for creating its own rules and reality. This metaphysical situation, he contends, carries with it extensive consequences, some of which include rebellion-triggered murders which, he adds, are not the responsibility of rebellion in and of itself.

"The Sons of Cain"

This chapter begins with commentary on the story of Prometheus (see "Important People"), whom the author suggests has all the superficial characteristics of a metaphysical rebel but who acts according to the classical Greek philosophy of existence - that everything experienced...