What is the author's style in Beware of Pity by Stefan Zweig?

The language of the novel is somewhat formal, which can, on occasion, mask the true emotion of the characters. This actually serves a function in the novel, as Hofmiller, the main character, is a man born of military blood who hails duty over all else. He is not much for passion, or even love, but does have the emotional capacity for pity.