Doživljaji dobrog vojnika Švejka
One of the most popular works of world humorous prose, written between 1921 and 1923. The satirical anti-war story follows Josef Švejk, a simple-minded Czech soldier, during World War I in the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy.
Švejk, a dog dealer from Prague, is drafted into the army, and his seemingly idiotic obedience and literal understanding of orders cause chaos, mocking military bureaucracy and the absurdity of war. The plot follows Švejk's adventures from recruitment, through military hospitals and prisons, to the front.
Through a series of episodes, Hašek depicts his conversations with superiors, such as Lieutenant Lukaš, and other soldiers, where Švejk's witty anecdotes and endless stories expose the absurdity of authority and war ideologies. His apparent stupidity is actually a subtle rebellion against the system. The novel abounds in humor, ironic commentary, and criticism of social norms, especially military discipline and nationalism.
The work, divided into four parts, remained unfinished due to Hašek's death in 1923, with about 800 pages in total. It is written in a vivid, colloquial language, which emphasizes Švejk's ethnic origin. Švejk is a universal satire on human nature and the futility of war, leaving a lasting impact on world literature.
Multiple copies are available
