Inferno provides a vivid journey into the turbulent psyche of August Strindberg during a tumultuous period from 1894 to 1897. While many of the narrator’s experiences mirror Strindberg’s own—his chemical experiments, life in Paris, and the people he encountered—the work transcends pure autobiography. Instead, Strindberg weaves his life’s events into a poetic narrative that extends beyond a simple account of personal mental illness.

This seminal work marked a pivotal transition for Strindberg, as he grappled with a profound crisis of faith, emerging with an expressionistic vision that signaled the decline of literary naturalism. Inferno showcases the early signs of expressionism, evident in its portrayal of the alienated hero, the use of anonymous characters, and the depiction of a solipsistic world. The narrative embraces motifs of pilgrimage, macabre imagery, dreamlike sequences, infernal machines, and apocalyptic revelations. These elements form a rich tapestry heralding a new artistic direction.

Following Inferno, Strindberg's creative exploration continued to flourish, culminating in dramatic masterpieces such as Ett dromspel (A Dream Play, 1912) and Till Damaskus (1898-1904; To Damascus, 1913). These works refined expressionistic techniques, exerting a profound influence on the evolution of German expressionism and laying the groundwork for modern absurdism. Through these contributions, Strindberg left an indelible mark on the theatrical and literary landscapes of his time.