Symbols, Motifs, and Themes in 'The Metamorphosis.'
‘The Metamorphosis’ is a story about Gregor Samsa, a man who one day transforms into a gaint disgusting bug written by Franz Kafka. In the novel, Kafka have made use of symbols (an idea or object used to represent something) and motifs (reoccurring idea or concept that is used in the story) throughout the novel.
Apples are the important symbol that have been used repeatedly used by Kafka. In Bible, apples are considered a fruit of good and evil. When seeing Gregor’s transformation his mother faints, so Gregor fills his pockets with apples for the cure of his wife. He also load some on the back of Gregor, but that injures him which leads to death. Here, apples represents life and death which also leads to its theme.
Spring is another symbol in the novel which is developed after Gregor’s death which symbolizes hope and revewal. These symbols further develop the theme of family duty and responsibility.
