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Literary Fiction· Czech Republic

The Joke

by Milan Kundera
Aggregate Editorial Score30/100
Published 1967Czech
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About This Book

When Milan Kundera published The Joke in 1967, it quickly found its place in the broader tradition of literary fiction. Kundera's debut novel is a powerful critique of the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia, told through the story of a man whose life is derailed by a seemingly harmless joke. The novel explores themes of irony, revenge, and the personal impact of political ideologies, establishing Kundera as a significant voice in world literature. Themes of political oppression, irony and satire, revenge run through the work.

Book Details

AuthorMilan Kundera
Published1967
Country of Origin🇨🇿 Czech Republic
LanguageCzech
Category📖 Literary Fiction
ISBN978-0060995058
Editorial Score30/100
About the Category

📖 Literary Fiction

Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

Explore all Literary Fiction books →
Country of Origin

🇨🇿 Czech Republic

This book is part of Czech Republic's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from Czech Republic →

Editorial Assessment

The Joke by Milan Kundera sits within the tradition of literary fiction that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1967 in Czech Republic, it engages with political oppression, irony and satire, revenge, identity in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. Critics and institutions have consistently placed The Joke among the notable works of its period. Our aggregate score of 30/100 is compiled from 1 editorial sources that range from Nobel and Booker committees to leading literary journals. Readers coming to The Joke for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of political oppression, irony and satire, revenge, identity is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Within Czech Republic's literary landscape, Milan Kundera occupies a significant position. The Joke is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Guardian 100 Best Novels
list · global
20030
✍️
About the Author
Milan Kundera
Czech Republic
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Milan Kundera is a Czech Republic author whose work in literary fiction has earned recognition from readers and critics alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Joke about?

Kundera's debut novel is a powerful critique of the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia, told through the story of a man whose life is derailed by a seemingly harmless joke. The novel explores themes of irony, revenge, and the personal impact of political ideologies, establishing Kundera as a significant voice in world literature.

Who wrote The Joke?

The Joke was written by Milan Kundera, from Czech Republic. First published in 1967.

What awards has The Joke won?

The Joke has received the following recognition: notable critical recognition.

Is The Joke worth reading?

The Joke is a well-regarded book with an aggregate editorial score of 30/100 on 50 Best Books. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in political oppression, irony and satire, revenge.

Where can I buy The Joke?

You can buy The Joke on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The Joke?

The Joke is classified as Literary Fiction. Character-driven fiction that prioritises style, theme, and psychological depth.

What country is The Joke from?

The Joke originates from Czech Republic's literary tradition. Explore more books from Czech Republic on our country page.

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