Significance of Castle
In South Asia, the term "Castle" signifies both a royal residence where proclamations are issued and Kafka's novel, which examines a protagonist's futile battle against bureaucratic systems. The story reflects deep themes of alienation and the desire for belonging, contrasting the physical stronghold of a castle with the internal struggle of the character. This duality highlights the significance of the term in both historical and literary contexts.
Synonyms: Fortress, Palace, Stronghold, Citadel, Tower, Mansion.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Castle'
In Hinduism, "Castle" symbolizes fortifications against chaos, representing the strength and protection offered by divine forces, akin to giants defending realms, embodying both physical and spiritual safeguards within a community.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Castles are places where giants dwell, and they are part of the city's defenses, along with walls, moats, guarded ports, towers, forts, and the battlemented citadel.[1]
The concept of Castle in local and regional sources
Castle symbolizes both a literal royal residence, where authority is established, and metaphorically represents Kafka's novel, illustrating the protagonist's pervasive struggle against bureaucratic barriers and a deep-seated desire for connection and acceptance.
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) The place where the King resides and where royal proclamations are made.[2]
From: Triveni Journal
(1) A novel by Kafka that explores the protagonist's futile struggle against bureaucratic systems and the yearning for belonging.[3]
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) Ceadda preached the Gospel in castles, the open country, cottages, villages, and towns, after his consecration.[4]