"The Good Soldier Švejk" is a satirical novel written by Czech author Jaroslav Hašek. It follows the misadventures of Švejk, a seemingly simple-minded soldier during World War I. Despite the chaos of war, he maintains a humorous and optimistic outlook, often outsmarting authority figures. The story critiques the absurdities of military life and bureaucracy. Švejk's antics highlight the irrationality of war and the incompetence of those in power. The novel is celebrated for its rich characterizations and dark humor, making it a classic of anti-war literature.