Discovered Švejk manuscript to go on display in Prague

The Museum of Literature in Prague will exhibit newly-found parts of the manuscript of The Good Soldier Švejk from September 30 to October 2. The showcase will also feature the first volume of Jaroslav Hašek’s novel with a previously unknown personal dedication, along with related archival materials.

The work, The Fateful Adventures of the Good Soldier Švejk During the World War, is regarded as one of the most striking satirical portrayals of the First World War. With its good-hearted protagonist Josef Švejk, it remains among the most translated and widely read works of Czech literature.

The discovery was announced by the Museum of Czech Literature on August 28, when staff uncovered the materials in the estate of Hašek’s publisher Karel Synek.