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What makes something "Kafkaesque"? - Noah Tavlin

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TEDEd Animation

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The term Kafkaesque has entered the vernacular to describe unnecessarily complicated and frustrating experiences, especially with bureaucracy. But does standing in a long line to fill out confusing paperwork really capture the richness of Kafka’s vision? Beyond the word’s casual use, what makes something "Kafkaesque"? Noah Tavlin explains.

What is often the vernacular meaning of “Kafkaesque”?

About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Noah Tavlin
  • Script Editor Alex Gendler
  • Director Jeremiah Dickey
  • Narrator Addison Anderson

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