Polemische Transgression. Karl Kraus zwischen Schrift und Aktion

Abstract

This essay focuses on the medial transgression from the written word to action in the polemic writings of Karl Kraus. The manifestation of transgression in his polemical wri­tings should be seen as a consequent mode which characterizes his concept of polemics, finally as a permanent excess of its own medial as well as conceptual requirements. In the second part, this essay discusses ethical and/or political problems that result from those modes of transgression, particularly in Kraus’ attitude towards the First World War and the Nazi regime.