Krakatit · Chapters

Chapters explained

Chapter companions for Krakatit by Karel Čapek.

Read with companions Book page

Each chapter has a companion in the reader — open a free preview to see notes beside the text.

Chapter 1
I
In the foggy evening, Prokop, feeling ill and disoriented, encounters a man named Thomas, who recognizes him. Prokop is in a feverish state, rambling about an explosive substance called Krakatit, which he believes is dangerous and could destroy Prague. Thomas tries to help him, but Prokop collapses unconscious.
Chapter 2
II
Prokop, feverish and disoriented, is brought by Thomas to his flat. Thomas cares for him, and Prokop, in a delirious state, rambles about his explosive discoveries and atomic theories. Thomas, struggling financially, listens and tends to him as Prokop falls into a feverish sleep.
Chapter 3
III
Prokop, in a feverish delirium, experiences a series of terrifying dreams and hallucinations. He dreams of running endlessly, of his father being murdered, and of being examined by Professor Wald on explosives and Krakatit. Thomas, who is caring for him, tries to extract the secret of Krakatit's preparation from Prokop's ramblings. Prokop also dreams of a conversation with Plinius about power and explosives, and then has a vision of being crushed by geometric planes and falling into a chasm.
Chapter 4
IV
Prokop wakes in a strange room, disoriented and ill after the explosion. Thomas prepares to leave for Tynice, mentioning he may not return. After Thomas departs, Prokop struggles with fever and confusion. A veiled young woman arrives, asking for Thomas. She reveals Thomas may shoot himself and pleads for someone to stop him. Prokop agrees to go after him, despite his own illness and growing feelings for the girl.
Chapter 5
V
Prokop experiences a feverish nightmare filled with grotesque cabbage heads and a veiled girl. He wakes to find the veiled woman from Hybsmonka at his door, bringing a parcel for Thomas. Despite his injured hand, he insists on delivering it himself, revealing his deep infatuation and his willingness to sacrifice his own well-being for her. The encounter is charged with mutual tension and unspoken feelings, ending with her departure and Prokop's profound weakness.

Free preview

49 more chapter companions sit beside the text in BetterReads — open a free preview to unlock the rest.

49 more companions → free preview

I

II

III

IV

V