the metamorphosis

In the novella The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka, the author analyzes change and its repercussions in its entirety. Kafka offers a unique perspective as he follows the transformation of the main character, Gregor Samsa. The transformation from human to insect, as exemplified by Gregor, helps the reader understand Kafka's portrayal of Samsa as a character. The reaction of Gregor's family and their own transformation throughout the progression of the story also provides readers with Kafka's thoughts on change and alienation as well as other key themes. One may argue that the two most prominent transformations were that of Gregor and his sister Grete. Although Gregor's personality remains relatively consistent throughout, his physical transformation serves as the basis of the plot which strengthens its prominence. Grete goes through several changes throughout the novella as well. Grete's transformation from girl to woman holds nearly as much significance as Gregor's. Ultimately, each member of the Samsa family undergoes transformations of various degrees. Throughout the novella, the relationships between the Samsa family emphasizes the common practice of completely disregarding someone once they have changed in a way that doesn't abide by the standards society has deemed as acceptable. Through the use of Gregor Samsa as well as other characters, Kafka expresses his ideas on change and the stigma that is, at times, associated with it which can lead to alienation; each character can also serves as a metaphor by representing society and our tendency to reject people based on their flaws physically or personality-wise.

One may argue that Gregor undergoes the most drastic change throughout the novella. Over night, he is transformed from ...

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...atment of people as well. Those who fit in with the majority have it easiest. Others that have been burdened with flaws or weaknesses face constant criticism and are constantly forced to overcome adversity. Kafka also explores the idea that society deems the importance of a person. People who have been blessed with advantages such as wealth, good looks, and status are placed higher in societal ranks, and, in turn, are looked to as superiors. The author also delves into notions that suggest society naturally distances themselves from the weak, diseased, and corrupt. Humans often lack the patience to understand one's differences and immediately hold them in lower regards which ultimately leads to alientation and stigma. The Metamorphosis allows readers to understand and apply ideas of change and isolation as well as the transformation of ourselves as well as others.