The Class

More about the book

Set in pre-WWI Prague, the story follows Josef Blau, a high school teacher grappling with insecurity stemming from his lower social status compared to his privileged students. His obsession with maintaining order and discipline leads him to paranoia, fearing his students will exploit any weakness. Simultaneously, he struggles with jealousy over his attractive wife, compelling her to alter her appearance in a misguided attempt to control her fidelity. As his mental state deteriorates, the threat of catastrophe looms over his life.