The Metamorphosis

Novel | Franz Kafka
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What is the significance of Gregor's metamorphosis into an insect

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What obstacles does Gregor face after turning into an insect? [NU: 2017, 20] ★★★

Or, What is the significance of Gregor's metamorphosis into an insect? 

Franz Kafka’s (1883–1924) “The Metamorphosis” (1915) begins with a strange event. Gregor Samsa wakes in his room and finds himself changed into a vermin. From that moment, his life becomes full of obstacles. His metamorphosis shows the painful truth of human suffering.

Physical Obstacles in His Room: Gregor’s body becomes weak and helpless. Kafka says, 

“One morning, when Gregor Samsa woke from troubled dreams, he found himself transformed in his bed into a horrible vermin.”

He cannot move easily. His many legs wave in the air. He cannot even open the door when the Chief Clerk arrives. His insect form makes his daily life full of physical obstacles.

Family Rejection and Cruelty: Gregor wants to speak with his family, but his vo

ice changes. Kafka says,

“Gregor was shocked when he heard his own voice.”

His mother faints, Grete cries, and his father drives him back with the Clerk’s stick. Later, Mr. Samsa throws apples at him. One apple sticks in his back and wounds him. This rejection by his family is another obstacle.

Social Isolation and Neglect: Gregor loses his job and respect. The Chief Clerk runs away in fear. His family starts working. Grete pushes food into his room with her foot.  His room becomes dirty. His family forgets him. This neglect is his final obstacle before his lonely death.

Gregor’s metamorphosis creates obstacles in every part of life. His insect body limits him to his room. His family rejects him with cruelty. His society isolates him in neglect. The significance of his metamorphosis is the picture of human dehumanization.

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Franz Kafka
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from The Metamorphosis