Perspectives

Franz Kafka, the author of the novel The Trial, grew up in a city and a country marked by contrasts. These contrasts were concentrated in his hometown of Prague and had a decisive influence on Kafka’s life and his works. 

Moreover, The Trial was written at a time marked by fundamental upheavals that influenced the perception of the world for an entire generation. This generation gave rise to what is today known as  the concept of Expressionism. These artists focus greatly on a fundamental sense of loss and alienation. At the same time, the artists of the time were heavily influenced by a thought of German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche: the creation of the new man. We explain here what the cornerstones of this movement were and how they are to be judged with reference to the novel The Trial.

We also look at the historical background that influenced Kafka’s writing, as well as the concept of nihilism, that can be seen in his works, including The Trial. Since The Trial was also adapted into a movie in 1962, we will also have a look at the adaptation and discuss the differences and similarities it has with the novel.