Notes

This chapter is about court procedures and the inactivity that ensues in K.'s trial. Though he tries to keep himself busy, he is mentally occupied with the case. In fact he is considering attempting a self-defending account. We see that K.Â’s advocate is well aware of the manner in which the courtÂ’s proceedings are handled. He knows that the court officials never read the cases, which are filed. Kafka doesnÂ’t hold the lawyerÂ’s profession in very high esteem.

KafkaÂ’s opinion of the lawyerÂ’s profession is reflected in the graphic description of the lawyers room. The room is steeped in darkness with a single skylight, almost like a cell. It is noteworthy that he compares the lawyerÂ’s room to a cell. The floor has a hole where the lawyer might slip and fall, large enough for a single leg. The room is covered with chimney smoke signifying the uncertainty with reference to K.Â’s case and his destiny.

Another pointer to the K.Â’s dead-end condition is the fact that they do not find the necessity for a Defending Counsel. The accused himself is considered responsible for his defense. It is truly appalling that the proceedings are kept secret, hidden from the accused and the public.

With all these defects they never think in terms of modifying the judicial system. And there is no possibility of any change for the better as the lower officials feel it is better to adapt rather than come into conflict with the system and fall into "destruction". The only change one could expect is for the worse, a more ruthless and rigid system.

K. wonders how he could draw up his own plea and at the same time he has a compelling urge not to do so. From K.'s reflections it is revealed that the accusation and its cause are still unknown. And he finds it difficult to account for every moment of his activities. He is at the peak of his career, competing with even the Assistant Manager, wasting his time fighting a case without knowing the exact nature of his arrest.

The intriguing situation is not restricted to the court of law alone it is present in the bank as well. The Assistant Manager uses his influence over the invalid, Senior Manager to obtain favors for himself.

The painter, Titoreli is an important character in the book. The description of the Prague Township where the painterÂ’s house is situated is extremely graphic. The painter's house is situated diametrically opposite to the court offices. It is a filthy area, rat infected, gutters oozing out in the snow, infants crying on the street. There is again the maze of staircases, which he climbs. It is filled with, young adolescent screaming girls.

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