In the Penal Colony

The execution machine in the story is described as “large and imposing” and consisting of “dark, humongous trunks.” How does the description of the apparatus relate to the theme of Power and Control?

The officer embodies the “guilt is never in question” mindset. What commentary does Franz Kafka attempt to make about the role of authority in society through the officer’s character?

The traveler is presented as a foreigner who “never knew [the] previous commander,” nor is he “acquainted with the society” and “prefer[s] a more cultivated approach.” How does the story explore the theme of moral relativism and the idea that different peoples and cultures have different ethical standards and moral judgments?