The Joke

Style and Technique

Milan Kundera's novel «The Joke» is characterized by its complex structure and multilayered narrative. Kundera employs multiple perspectives, shifting between different characters, which allows for a deeper exploration of each character's inner world and presents events from various angles. The language of the work is rich with ironic and sarcastic remarks, highlighting the absurdity and tragedy of the situations the characters find themselves in. The author actively uses flashbacks to reveal the characters' backstories and motivations. Literary devices such as symbolism and allegory help convey profound philosophical ideas and critique the political system. The novel's nonlinear structure allows the reader to gradually piece together the overall picture from fragments of memories and reflections of the characters.