In the Penal Colony

The officer embodies the “guilt is never in question” mindset. What commentary does Franz Kafka attempt to make about the role of authority in society through the officer’s character?

The traveler is presented as a foreigner who “never knew [the] previous commander,” nor is he “acquainted with the society” and “prefer[s] a more cultivated approach.” How does the story explore the theme of moral relativism and the idea that different peoples and cultures have different ethical standards and moral judgments?

The officer is in “awe” of and “intimately acquainted” with the apparatus, which is also referred to as “his baby.” Comment on the relationship the officer has with the apparatus. What is the significance of the machine’s self-destruction during the officer’s suicide?

The penal colony is located in an alienated valley surrounded by cliffs. How is the colony’s setting used to explore the theme of isolation and the psychological effects of confinement?

How does Kafka address the dichotomy of tradition versus progress? Does he present one as superior? What other binaries and tensions are present in the story?

Why does the traveler decide to leave the penal colony as soon as he can? How does this relate to the idea of freedom and free will? Is free will available to everyone?

What does the story say about power dynamics and how they can be exploited? Comment on the dehumanizing and desensitizing effect of power using evidence from the story.

The prisoner has no way of expressing or advocating for himself. He cannot participate in or understand conversations that directly concern him. Despite being the subject of the conversation, he is treated like an object or animal. What does this say about the philosophical debate of equality and justice?