Question

Consider the word metamorphosis and evaluate it in terms of Gregor, his parents, and his sister as characters who develop differently in the story. Use the following table to discuss how the incident of Gregor changing into an insect affected and changed each character.

Answer 1

Answer:

Gregor

Even though Gregor is the only character to undergo a physical transformation, he experiences perhaps the least emotional growth of all the characters. That’s not to say he doesn’t evolve, though. He changes somewhat when he starts putting his own wants and desires over those of his family. He basks in the joy of freedom and escape from responsibility, and he spends hours hanging from the ceiling enjoying himself. He even learns to stand up for himself. At one point, he attempts to defend his belongings when Grete tries to get rid of them. He also tries to obtain human pleasure by listening to his sister play the violin. However, his story has a sad ending. He seems to return to his self-sacrificing ways by dying so that he will no longer be a burden to his family, leaving them free to prosper.

Mr. Samsa

Gregor’s metamorphosis brings about a metamorphosis in his parents, especially his father. Prior to Gregor’s change, his father was a decrepit old man who never got dressed and who could hardly walk. However, after Gregor’s transformation, his father is overcome with newfound confidence. He gets a job as a bank messenger and never takes off his new blue uniform. Gregor’s death strengthens his father further, empowering him to stand up to the lodgers and the charwoman.

Mrs. Samsa

Mrs. Samsa is sympathetic to Gregor during his crisis, although she seems unable to relate to him or even tolerate his presence. She displays both nervous and sentimental behavior while Gregor is alive. For example, she faints upon seeing him but tries to prevent her husband from killing him. His death seems to loosen her up, and she accompanies her husband and daughter on their family vacation. She even manages to get a job for herself as a seamstress in an underwear company.

Grete  

Grete undergoes significant change over the course of the story. She starts off taking care of and protecting Gregor when he’s transformed into an insect. Later, she grows tired of him and begins to resent him. She starts neglecting him and encourages the family to get rid of him. Gregor’s transformation and death has a liberating effect on her. All her life, she had been dependent on him for everything. However, after he changes, she becomes more independent and starts taking on more responsibility. She gets a job as a salesgirl and starts learning shorthand and French to improve her future prospects. The story ends on a promising note for Grete, who can now look forward to getting married and starting a new life.

Explanation: