The novel The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka explores the theme of change and transformation as insinuated by the title of the book. This relationship between the novels title and the theme is brought to life through the story’s protagonist Gregor Samsa. Gregor wakes up one morning from a troubled ...
The novel The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka explores the theme of change and
transformation as insinuated by the title of the book. This relationship between the novels title
and the theme is brought to life through the story’s protagonist Gregor Samsa. Gregor wakes up
one morning from a troubled dream to realize that he has turned into a monstrous vermin. The
story is a follow up of Gregor’s ordeal as he tries to come terms with new condition. But
although undergoes tremendous physical change throughout the novel but his character does not
experience any significant transformation as the story progresses.
The story begins with the death of the protagonist’s father which leaves the Gregor in
charge in fending for his family (3). Thus his situation transforms from that of a quiet relaxed
man living a quiet life. To a categorically disturbed man who does not like his job but does it
anyway to feed his family. His transformation into a large insect leaves him incapable of
functioning normally as a human being both physically and psychologically. As a result of his
transformation he is isolated and has to come to terms with his situation moving forward. But his
transformation affects not only himself but also those around him. Because he was the sole bread
winner, his inability to work means that those who depend on him have to find ways to support
themselves. Thus by his transformation, the lives of other characters are transformed as well.
Kafka uses Gregor’s transformation to explore the theme of existentialism, the
philosophy of finding the purpose of oneself and life itself through free will, choice, and personal
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