Block's Degradation

The subplot of the businessman Block, a long-term client of Dr. Huld, whose abject submission to the lawyer illustrates the dehumanizing effect of the trial.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

First Encounter

The Groveling Client Meeting Block K. meets Block in the lawyer's kitchen. Block is a small, wizened man who has been involved in his trial for five years. He has hired multiple lawyers and is completely dependent on Dr. Huld. Block's Story Block explains his experience with the court, including the superstitions among defendants. He reveals that he sleeps in the maid's room to be available for the lawyer at any time. K. is both fascinated and repelled. The Demonstration Dr. Huld calls Block in and humiliates him in front of K. Block kneels and begs for information. The lawyer uses Block to show K. the power he holds over clients. K. is disgusted and more determined to break free.

Block's Continued Servitude

The Price of Hope Block's Routine Block's life revolves around the trial. He has sacrificed his business and dignity. He reads legal documents he cannot understand and waits endlessly for the lawyer's summons. Symbol of the System Block represents the fate that awaits K. if he continues on the same path. His degradation is a warning. K. sees in Block the loss of self that the court demands. This subplot reinforces the theme of dehumanization.

Late evening, during K.'s visit to dismiss the lawyer

Throughout the trial