In Kafka's famed story, bank clerk Joseph K is arrested for a crime that didn't take place and put on a trial that never occurs. This faithful graphic novel adaptation depicts not just the comical, nightmarish and absurdist themes explored by Kafka but also his gravitation to and mistrust of women. Artist Montellier's heavy shadows cast
The Trial in a dark world framed with detailed embellishments that spill out of panels, creating a dreamlike (albeit a nightmare) quality. The surreal feeling of the story, and Kafka's absurdist view of reality, make this adaptation a dense read, full of strange imagery and, overall, a bit overwhelming. Although a clear, visual rendering of the feeling
kafkaesque, a new, grotesque element is added with every scene, making it difficult to digest the events of the plot. Likely good supplemental reading to Kafka's actual novel, this graphic novel may serve as a useful entry point to his
Writing for teachers and librarians.
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Reader ReviewsFranz Kafka's "The Trial" is a fable, sadly relevant today, about the law perpetuating injustice instead of fighting it. The story concerns one Joseph K., who suddenly has two men show up at his door one morning, informing him he is under arrest. They do not identify which authority they represent, or tell K. what the charges are against him. Eventually the two men tell K. that he has to show up at a court on a particular day. From there, he tries in vain to figure out the Byzantine workings of the system that is apparently against him. The "court" is actually in an obscure building in a run-down neighborhood, for instance. Especially memorable in the story is the fable of the law- in which a man is waiting for entrance to the door of the law, but the doorman won't let him in. Even if you never read graphic novels, this one is definitely worth getting. Mairowitz brings Kafka's nightmarish vision to life beautifully, along with all the absurdities of injustice in his world. One interesting little motif is a little skeleton that periodically pops up in the margins and comments on the events. If you've never read "The Trial", this is an excellent format in which to read it. I am of the opinion that graphic novels can be just as legitimate as traditional books in conveying literary themes. Although, if you're reading "The Trial" for a class, then read the traditional book, because you'll probably fail the quizzes if you rely on the graphic novel. Otherwise, this is highly recommended. Anyone who has been waiting for the absolute acquittal or entrance to the door of the law will love this.
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