New Books in Literary Studies cover image

New Books in Literary Studies

On Franz Kafka's "The Trial"

Oct 27, 2022
Delve into Franz Kafka's unsettling 'The Trial' where the crime is hidden. Professor Mark Anderson explores Kafka's legacy and the term 'Kafkaesque'. Learn about Kafka's life, struggles, and his timeless insights on power and powerlessness. Unravel the enigma of 'The Trial' and its impact on readers post-World War II. Explore Kafka's influence on media adaptations reflecting themes of power and isolation.
30:36

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Quick takeaways

  • Kafka's portrayal of bureaucracy in 'The Trial' captures dehumanizing effects of modern society.
  • Kafka's works reflect universal experiences of powerlessness and authoritarianism, inspiring various art forms worldwide.

Deep dives

Influence of Kafka's Background on His Writing

Franz Kafka, born in Prague to a German-speaking Jewish family struggling with assimilation, reflected elements of this identity crisis and societal discrimination in his works. Facing a cultural void yet being unable to fully assimilate, Kafka and his peers sought to reconnect with their Jewish heritage. This struggle to balance modernity with traditional values and the impact of societal prejudices influenced Kafka's narrative themes and character dynamics.

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