Metamorphosis follows Gregor Samsa, a traveling salesman who wakes up transformed into a giant insect. The novella explores themes of alienation, identity, and the human condition as Gregor's family struggles to cope with his new form. Kafka delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil experienced by both Gregor and his family, revealing their shifting dynamics and ultimate rejection of him. This classic work, published in 1915, remains a significant piece of literature for students and readers interested in existentialism and modernist themes.

Key Points

  • Explores the transformation of Gregor Samsa into a giant insect and its impact on his family dynamics.
  • Examines themes of alienation, identity, and the human condition in modern society.
  • Highlights the psychological struggles of Gregor and his family's gradual rejection of him.
  • Published in 1915, this novella is a cornerstone of existentialist literature.
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The Metamorphosis
By Franz Kafka (1915)
T M
This text is a translation from the German by Ian Johnston,
Malaspina University-College Nanaimo, BC. It has been
prepared for students in the Liberal Studies and English
departments. This document is in the public domain,
released, January 1999
F B  P B.
I
O
ne morning, as Gregor Samsa was waking up from
anxious dreams, he discovered that in bed he had been
changed into a monstrous verminous bug. He lay on his ar-
mour-hard back and saw, as he lifted his head up a little, his
brown, arched abdomen divided up into rigid bow-like sec-
tions. From this height the blanket, just about ready to slide
off completely, could hardly stay in place. His numerous
legs, pitifully thin in comparison to the rest of his circum-
ference, flickered helplessly before his eyes.
‘What’s happened to me,’ he thought. It was no dream.
His room, a proper room for a human being, only some-
what too small, lay quietly between the four well-known
walls. Above the table, on which an unpacked collection of
sample cloth goods was spread out (Samsa was a traveling
salesman) hung the picture which he had cut out of an il-
lustrated magazine a little while ago and set in a pretty gilt
frame. It was a picture of a woman with a fur hat and a fur
boa. She sat erect there, lifting up in the direction of the
viewer a solid fur muff into which her entire forearm dis-
appeared.
Gregor’s glance then turned to the window. The dreary
weather (the rain drops were falling audibly down on the
metal window ledge) made him quite melancholy. ‘Why
don’t I keep sleeping for a little while longer and forget all
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FAQs

What happens to Gregor Samsa in The Metamorphosis?
Gregor Samsa, a traveling salesman, wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a giant insect. This shocking change leads to a profound shift in his life and the lives of his family members. Initially, they attempt to care for him, but as time passes, their compassion turns to resentment and fear. Gregor's transformation symbolizes the themes of alienation and the struggle for identity, ultimately leading to his tragic demise.
How does Gregor's family react to his transformation?
Initially, Gregor's family expresses concern for his well-being, but their attitude shifts dramatically over time. As they struggle to adapt to his new form, they become increasingly frustrated and ashamed. His sister Grete, who initially cares for him, eventually argues that he is no longer her brother, reflecting the family's complete emotional detachment. This transformation in their relationship underscores the novella's exploration of familial obligation and the fragility of human connections.
What themes are prevalent in Kafka's Metamorphosis?
Metamorphosis prominently features themes of alienation, identity, and the absurdity of life. Gregor's transformation into an insect serves as a metaphor for the alienation individuals often feel in modern society. The novella also examines the struggle for self-identity in the face of societal expectations and familial pressures. Kafka's portrayal of Gregor's plight invites readers to reflect on the nature of humanity and the impact of isolation on the human spirit.
What literary style is used in The Metamorphosis?
Franz Kafka employs a surreal and absurdist style in The Metamorphosis, blending elements of realism with fantastical transformations. This unique approach allows readers to explore complex themes of identity and alienation through a lens that challenges conventional narrative structures. Kafka's use of detailed descriptions and psychological depth creates a haunting atmosphere that resonates with the reader, making the story both unsettling and thought-provoking.
What is the significance of Gregor's job as a traveling salesman?
Gregor Samsa's role as a traveling salesman is significant as it highlights the themes of responsibility and societal expectations. His job represents the burdens of adult life and the pressures to provide for one's family. After his transformation, Gregor's inability to fulfill his role leads to feelings of guilt and inadequacy. This shift in his identity raises questions about the value placed on work and the impact of economic pressures on personal relationships.

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