... well as "The Tangerines," draws out obsession as a major theme. These obsessions, varying from story to story, essentially lead to the demise of a loved one, happiness, or sensibility. Parable-like in nature, Akutagawa's stories portray obsession as a powerful force, capable of becoming an all-pervasive influence. From Yoshihide's compulsive desire to complete the hell screen, to the priest's ... drove him to a state of extreme unhappiness. Since the dawn of literature, parables have played a significant factor in shaping cultures, religion, as well as personalities. Kafka, a modern para...

• Word Count: 1093
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

... access to knowledge. Therefore, "Before the Law" lies at the heart of Kafka's writing as a definitive statement on his version of the human condition in the form of a parable, it explores the idea of a physical being standing before a concept in which he is forbidden to access. The self is therefore denied the freedom to access knowledge and cannot ignore ... , political and spiritual questions on the human condition is able to explore the purpose of men when faced upon the ambiguities of such concept as the law. By using the parable structure, Kafka brings a level of irony to the story ...

• Word Count: 1522
• Approx Pages: 6
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate