1. "The Metamorphosis": This novella, originally titled "Die Verwandlung," tells the story of Gregor Samsa, a salesman who wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a giant insect.
2. "The Trial": Another influential work, "Der Prozess" in German, follows the story of Josef K., who is arrested and prosecuted without knowing the charges against him. The novel explores themes of guilt, bureaucracy, and the individual's struggle against powerful systems.
3. "The Castle": This unfinished novel, titled "Das Schloss," presents the protagonist K.'s quest to enter a mysterious castle and gain access to its bureaucratic apparatus.
4. "A Hunger Artist": In this short story titled "Ein Hungerkünstler," Kafka presents the life and experiences of a performer whose art form involves fasting.
5. "The Judgement": Published in German as "Das Urteil," this short story recounts the strained relationship between a son, Georg Bendemann, and his authoritarian father.
6. "In the Penal Colony": This short story, known as "In der Strafkolonie," depicts a dystopian society where a gruesome device is used as a form of punishment.
7. Collections: Kafka's short stories, or "Erzahlungen," are often grouped into collections, including "The Great Wall of China and Other Stories," "Wedding Preparations in the Country," and "A Little Fable."
8. Personal Writings: Kafka left behind a significant amount of personal writing, including diaries, journals, and letters, which provide insight into his thoughts, struggles, and creative process.
It's worth mentioning that Kafka's works have a deep philosophical and psychological undercurrent, reflecting existential concerns about identity, anxiety, alienation, and the search for meaning in a complex world. His writing style is often characterized by surreal imagery, symbolism, and a blend of the ordinary and the extraordinary.