ARTISTIC MOTIFS IN THE WORKS OF JAMES JOYCE AND FRANZ KAFKA

Abstract

The article discusses the basic issues of motifs in the works of the two writers who played important roles in the development of the modern Western literature: James Joyce (1882-1941) and Franz Kafka (1883-1924). Through the comparison between the similarities and differences of their artistic motifs, especially the legendary and absurd motifs in their works, this article highlights the features in each author’s artistic thinking, simultaneously appreciates their contributions to the modern artistic thinking.

Keywords: James Joyce, Franz Kafka, legendary motif, absurd motifs