This paper argues that Kafka's theme of alienation and estrangement in "The Trial" can very much be connected to the historical and personal circumstances in Kafka's own life. To some extent, Kafka depersonalized his own alienation and translated it in a metaphorical manner in this novel. The estrangement he felt because of his nationality and Jewish ethnicity played a large role in this process. 15 pgs. 16 f/c. 6b.