Abstract：This paper analyzes the phenomenon of alienation which is commonly found in Franz Kafka’s works. It argues that though some scholars hold negative views toward the description of alienation, this characterization does have its significance in both history and today’s society, and the creation technique concerning the characterization also has the significant influence on the development of 20th century modernist literature. For this reason, Kafka is honored the forerunner of modernist literature in the west.

Keyword：Kafka; alienation; modernist literature;