Summary of the work - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Short summary - The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka

The Metamorphosis is a powerful piece of literature that explores the themes of isolation, alienation, and the fragility of human relationships. Franz Kafka, one of the greatest writers of the 20th century, authored this novella, which follows the story of Gregor Samsa, a traveling salesman, who wakes up one day to find himself transformed into a gigantic insect. The novel is divided into three parts, each depicting the gradual and grotesque physical and emotional transformation of Gregor.

Part One The first part of the novel begins with Gregor waking up to find himself turned into a "monstrous vermin." At first, he tries to ignore his new form and continue with his daily routine, but he soon realizes that he can no longer communicate with his family and is unable to move freely. Gregor feels alienated and isolated from the rest of the world and the only comfort he finds is in listening to the voices of his family members. Kafka's use of surreal and fantastical imagery adds to the unsettling mood of the novel, making the reader feel as though they too are experiencing Gregor's transformation.

Part Two The second part of the novel explores how Gregor's family reacts to his metamorphosis. They are horrified and disgusted by his new appearance and begin to neglect and mistreat him. Gregor's father attempts to kill him, and his sister, who had previously been his only ally, also turns against him. The family's reaction to Gregor's transformation highlights how easily people can turn on one another, especially when faced with something unfamiliar or strange. Gregor feels betrayed and abandoned by his family, and his physical condition begins to deteriorate rapidly. The second part of the novel is a commentary on how society treats those who are different and how those individuals are often pushed to the margins of society.

Part Three In the final part of the novel, Gregor dies, and his family feels relieved to be rid of him. They begin to move on with their lives, and even discuss possible ways to improve their financial situation. However, the family members also feel guilty for their mistreatment of Gregor, and they come to realize that they too have been transformed by his metamorphosis. The third part of the novel is a commentary on how individuals are affected by their actions and how they must live with the consequences of those actions.

The Metamorphosis is a powerful and thought-provoking work that explores the complexities of the human psyche and the nature of existence. Through the character of Gregor, Kafka examines the way in which society treats those who are different and how those individuals are often ostracized and marginalized. The novel is a commentary on how the fear of the unknown can lead to cruelty and how easily individuals can become alienated from their families and society.

Kafka's use of surreal and fantastical imagery adds to the unsettling mood of the novel, and his portrayal of Gregor's transformation is both disturbing and haunting. The novel's themes of isolation, alienation, and the fragility of human relationships are as relevant today as they were when Kafka wrote the novella. The Metamorphosis is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of the human experience and the nature of existence.

In conclusion, "The Metamorphosis" is a classic work of literature that continues to captivate and challenge readers today. Kafka's use of symbolism, imagery, and metaphors make it a powerful and thought-provoking work that explores the darker aspects of the human psyche. Through the character of Gregor, Kafka examines the way in which society treats those who are different and how important it is to accept and embrace diversity.