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Franz Kafka - Life and Philosophy
Franz Kafka was one of the most famous writers ever born in Czech lands. Franz Kafka's statue and museum are one of the must-see sights in Prague.
Franz Kafka was one of the most talented writers and notable literary figures born in Prague. Kafka's books, such as "Metamorphosis", "The Trial", "The Castle", are the most critically acclaimed works of 20th-century prose nowadays. Franz Kafka's philosophy also resonates with many people, who see themselves as heroes of his books.
Born in Prague Old Town, from his early childhood Franz was quite timid and introverted, especially in comparison to his father, a self-made entrepreneur. They never got along, which greatly influenced Fanz and his future literary works. Franz had 5 younger siblings, who all died in the Holocaust.
Franz worked for the insurance company Assicurazioni Generali located on Wenceslas Square. Although he was quite successful in his law career, Franz despised his job that was taking up all of his time he could have spent writing. Literature was his true vocation. Franz wrote in German, his first language, but also spoke Czech and French. Despite his Jewish heritage, it is unclear if Franz Kafka spoke Hebrew fluently, as the level of teaching this language in schools was low at that time.
Working for a big corporation only amplified the feeling of loneliness and despair in the young writer. Franz Kafka extensively explores "the clog in the machine" topic in his works. His nightmarish book settings gave birth to the term Kafkaesque, which describes a bizarre and oppressive world of bureaucratic delays.
In 1922, Franz left his work due to health problems and in 1924 died from tuberculosis. He is buried in the New Jewish Cemetery in Žižkov, Prague, Czech Republic.
Franz and his family moved at least 14 times but mainly stayed in the proximity of the old Town Square. Here is a list of the most famous houses linked to Franz Kafka's life!
Franz Kafka is best known for his books Metamorphosis, The Trial, The Castle, and the term Kafkaesque.
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Author: Valeriia Zahradnikova and Vaclav Zahradnik, Prague guides certified by Prague City Tourism agency. Valeriia and Vaclav have worked in tourism for over 6 years and have guided thousands of Prague visitors.