The Metamorphosis

Definition

The Metamorphosis is a novella by Franz Kafka, published in 1915, that tells the story of Gregor Samsa, a traveling salesman who wakes up one morning transformed into a giant insect. This drastic change serves as a powerful symbol of alienation, existential angst, and the struggles of modern life, connecting deeply with themes of identity and societal expectations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gregor's transformation into an insect symbolizes his feelings of worthlessness and dehumanization in his job and family life.
2. The novella explores how Gregor's family reacts to his metamorphosis, revealing their true feelings about him and their dependence on his income.
3. Kafka wrote The Metamorphosis while grappling with his own issues of identity and self-worth, making it a reflection of his personal struggles.
4. The story raises questions about the nature of humanity and what it means to be human in a modern society that values productivity over individuality.
5. The ending of The Metamorphosis is ambiguous and tragic, showcasing the irreversible impact of Gregor's transformation on himself and his family.

Review Questions

• How does Gregor's transformation in The Metamorphosis reflect themes of alienation and identity?
  • Gregor's transformation into an insect serves as a powerful metaphor for his profound alienation from both himself and society. Before his metamorphosis, he feels trapped in a job he despises to support his family, which further isolates him. After becoming an insect, this alienation intensifies as he can no longer communicate or fulfill societal roles, leading to a deeper exploration of identity and humanity.
• Discuss the role of Gregor's family in shaping the narrative of The Metamorphosis and how their dynamics change after his transformation.
  • Gregor's family initially depends on him financially, but their attitudes shift dramatically after his transformation. As Gregor becomes unable to provide for them, they reveal their true feelings of resentment and fear. This change highlights the fragile nature of familial bonds and underscores the theme of how societal expectations can distort personal relationships.
• Evaluate the broader implications of Gregor's transformation in The Metamorphosis on existential themes present in Kafka's work.
  • Gregor's transformation can be seen as an embodiment of existential themes such as absurdity and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. His struggle against societal norms reflects a larger commentary on how individuals navigate their existence within oppressive systems. Kafka invites readers to question what it truly means to live authentically when faced with life's inherent absurdities and challenges.

Related terms

Alienation:

A feeling of estrangement or disconnection from one's self, society, or the world, often explored in literature and philosophy.

Existentialism: A philosophical movement that focuses on individual existence, freedom, and choice, emphasizing the absurdity of life.

Kafkaesque: Describing situations that are surreal, illogical, and often oppressive, reflecting the themes found in Kafka's works.