world literature

This is undoubtedly one of the masterpieces of satyrical literature, on par with such giants as Don Quixote and Gargantua. While some particular jokes and comical situations may be difficult to understand for readers who didn't live in the Austro-Hungarian empire in the early 20th century, the humor is timeless, the way all masterpieces are. An incredibly funny novel that draws its comical effect from the absurdity of war, one of the most brutal and tragic events that humans can experience, where comic situations are unlikely to arise. The fact that they do here, and that the book causes the reader to laugh aloud many times while still showing him the cruelty and horrors of war, is the sign of a true satyrical genius. Svejk himself, the seemingly idiotic but in truth extremely wise and cunning "everyman" character, who was partially based on Hasek himself, is one of the most likeable and memorable characters in world literature.
I first read this book 5 years ago, and since then I reread it at least once a year and always find some new aspects of Hasek's work that I've missed before. I heartily recommend this all-time classic to anyone who is interested in WWI history, or just wants a good laugh.

The Good Soldier Svejk is like no other book I have ever read. It is truly a classic war satire and is on par with books like Catch 22. I see it as the spawn of many satires written about WWII however quite rightly no author has ever tried to replicate the style that it was written in. Jaroslav Hasek had one of the most interesting lives of any author, switching from Austro-Hungarian to Russian Monarchist to Bolshevik to Czech nationalist during WWI and his life story is reflected somewhat in his story while he illustrates it with brilliant humour.

The character of Svejk is developed in such an intricate way that makes it difficult to discover his real purposes but the book is not damaged in the slightest by the fact that it was cut short because of Hasek's untimely death. In fact it has only helped to cultivate the Svejk legend.

I encourage ANYONE to read this book. If your knowledge of Austria-Hungary and WWI is lacking, then this is the best way to learn!

Twenty years ago this was required reading for my East European history course, and I have to say it is not only a classic but a great read. My Professor (an exile Latvian) wanted us students to know the reason why Eastern Europeans acted the way they acted. After being dominated by major great powers, East Europeans became docile in the face of power. Good soldier Svejk not only exhibits this with both the Austro-Hungarians, but also the Russians. Svejk accomodates himself to the realities of his life by acceptance outwardly, but resists internally the controls placed on him.
This is a great read for those trying to understand East Europe.
It is also a humorous read. Even now I chuckle over the actions of Good Soldier Svejk.