The story of a crematorium employee who, under the influence of fascist ideology, becomes a freak and a murderer of his loved ones
Often referred to as a psychological horror film, The Corpse Burner, about Prague crematorium employee Karl Kopfrkingl, is set during the rise of Nazism. Karel Kopfrkingl is a decent citizen, a model father and husband, he presents himself as a gentle and sympathetic person, and often does not forget to mention that he is a teetotaler and does not smoke. He calls his wife Lakmé, he calls his cat beautiful, and it is mentioned many times that he speaks with a smile.
But what is hidden in the character of this seemingly "noble" man? The author gradually, in a bravura style full of irony and black humour, reveals the monstrous transformation and pathological behaviour of Karl Koprfkindl, who is fascinated by death and the desire to relieve the dead of the burden of their fate and to free them from their earthly life by cremation. The story is a metaphor for the ideas of racial intolerance and its resolution during the occupation and Nazism.
The Masters of the Word edition is full of literary treasures. Our best acting voices, who are so close to us, talk about their favourite books and important literary works that have reached them, influenced them and to which they may even like to return. Each month, you can look forward to new stories in the Masters of the Word Edition, uniquely performed by our masters of the spoken word, and delight your heart.