Introduction: Symbolic Transformation in The Metamorphosis
Symbolic Transformation in The Metamorphosis explores Gregor Samsa’s metamorphosis into a giant insect as a profound allegory for societal alienation and existential despair. Every story incorporates symbols to convey specific meanings the writer intends for readers to understand, and “The Metamorphosis” by Franz Kafka is no exception. It is written with the intention of illustrating how a person transforms overnight into an abominable vermin from a very important individual in the family, treated with love, care, and tenderness. The character of Gregor undergoes an overnight change into a “monstrous insect” (318), symbolizing not only his transformation into a hateful bug but also into a useless insect. From the moment he becomes a bug, he loses his significance, first in the eyes of the company manager who abandons him, despite his attempt to seek an explanation, and later, his father turns against him, confining him to his room without consideration for his condition. His life before the transformation and his relationships within the family can be interpreted as symbols of a working and earning individual who gained importance in the family by providing a comfortable life. However, once transformed, his sister and father turn against him, viewing him as a burden on their shoulders.
Samsa and Symbolic Transformation in The Metamorphosis
To comprehend his role within his family, it is crucial to view him as a working individual. The opening of this novelette highlights his developed obsession with work, understanding that without it, his family would suffer. Acknowledging the demanding nature of his job, he describes it as “exhaustive” (318) and acknowledges being constantly on the go, terming it as “to hell with it all!” (318). Despite expressing frustration and a desire to quit, he refrains from giving notice, recognizing the family’s dependence on him. As the sole breadwinner, he symbolizes the essence of work.
When he fails to get up and the manager arrives, his family members, except his sister, who persuades him to open the door, react harshly to his transformation into a vermin, particularly his father. Despite mistreatment and being barricaded into his room, his concern for the family’s financial condition persists. He reflects on his past pride in providing “his parents and his sister with such a life in such a nice apartment” (328). Even in his disconcerted state, he strives to “help his family bear the burdens that his present condition had placed on them” (328), showcasing his unwavering commitment to the financial responsibility of his family.
His role and relationships with his family undergo a drastic change after becoming a burden. This reversal symbolizes the shift in roles, where his family must now bear his burden. The reality surfaces that they never truly loved him; they accepted everything “gladly, but no warmth went with it” (325).
Family and Symbolic Transformation in The Metamorphosis
Following his transformation, his family initially attempts to adapt to the sudden change in circumstances. Formerly enjoying a comfortable life on his income, they now find themselves burdened by his plight. Mr. Gregor, the old man, reacts violently on the first day, while his mother is in shock, and only his younger sister pays some attention to him. Even then, he reflects on his own sensitivity but urges himself to focus on their discomfort due to him.
Over time, their behavior changes as the challenges intensify. Now, it’s their turn to bear the burden, but they prioritize their own adjustments rather than attending to his condition and needs. His father engages in financial calculations, marking Gregor’s diminishing importance as the furniture is removed from his room. Despite his mother’s protests, his sister, Grete, assumes new responsibilities, recognizing Gregor as a great burden on the family. This reversal transforms Gregor from the head of the family into a seemingly useless insect, while Grete takes on the role of the family’s provider.
His transformation becomes an accusation when his father assumes he is guilty of a violent act based on Grete’s account. Feeling marginalized, Gregor believes he should not be treated as an enemy. As the family realizes their resources are dwindling due to him, pragmatic Grete suggests getting rid of the vermin, treating him as if he were not her brother. Ultimately, he is given the name “dung beetle” (340) and meets his demise. This symbolic reversal of fortune portrays Gregor’s transformation from the head of the family to a vermin, a poignant reflection on the dynamics within the family.
Conclusion: Symbolic Transformation in The Metamorphosis
In short, his transformation from the head of the family to a giant insect symbolizes a reversal of fortune. Initially considered the most important figure, he becomes first a burden, then a “dung beetle” (340), and ultimately an insect to be discarded or killed. Upon his death, his family, having been briefed by Grete that he is no longer Gregor but a monstrous insect, shows no importance or mourning. The underlying truth is that the family never truly loved him, nor could they reciprocate the love he showered on them in the form of financial support for a comfortable life. Despite his efforts over the past five years, they could not endure his transformed state for even two months, highlighting the ironic twist of the story. As he turns into an animal that “persecutes us, drives away our boarders,” and jeopardizes their source of income, his earlier role sharply contrasts with the roles his family members play during the two months leading to his demise.
Works Cited: Symbolic Transformation in The Metamorphosis
- Kafka, Franz. “The Metamorphosis. “An Introduction to Fiction, Poetry, Drama and Writing”. Ed. Kennedy X. J. & Dana Gioia. 3rd ed. Vol. 10. New York: Pearson Longman, 2007. 318-343. Print.
Relevant Questions about Symbolic Transformation in The Metamorphosis
- How does Symbolic Transformation in The Metamorphosis, particularly Gregor Samsa’s transformation into a giant insect, serve as a symbolic representation of societal attitudes towards individuals who lose their societal or financial importance?
- In what ways does Franz Kafka use Symbolic Transformation in The Metamorphosis, specifically Gregor’s metamorphosis, to symbolize the shifting dynamics of family relationships and the consequences of societal expectations on an individual’s identity and worth?
- How do the reactions of Gregor’s family members to his Symbolic Transformation in The Metamorphosis reflect broader themes of alienation, indifference, and the dehumanizing impact of societal expectations?
