Kafka on the Shore Study Guide

Topics for Further Study

• Read the myth of Oedipus and write a paper noting the similarities and differences between the ancient Greek myth and the prophecy of Kafka's father in Kafka on the Shore. Include Kafka's reaction to the prophecy and how it influenced his actions.
• The idea of war and its effects permeate Kafka on the Shore. World War II forces the young Nakata from his home and toward his fate in the forest. His teacher's emotional strain is brought on by separation from her solider husband. Unexplained military research may have played a role in what happened to Nakata. Hoshini was part of the Japanese Self-Defense Force. Two deserters from the Japanese army help Kafka on his spiritual journey. Write an essay in which you examine these and other instance of "military presence" in the novel and.....

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