How is Gregor’s metamorphosis similar to Grete’s, and how does it differ?
The Metamorphosis is a notable literary work by Franz Kafka. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of The Metamorphosis.
Answer
How is Gregor’s metamorphosis similar to Grete’s, and how does it differ? [NU: 2017, 22] ★★★
Franz Kafka’s (1883–1924) “The Metamorphosis” (1915) shows two changes. Gregor Samsa changes into a vermin in his room. Sister Grete changes into a strong young woman. Both pass through metamorphosis, but one ends in death and the other in growth.
Gregor’s Physical Change and Grete’s Growth: Gregor’s metamorphosis is sudden and physical. Kafka says,
“One morning, when Gregor Samsa woke from troubled dreams, he found himself transformed in his bed into a horrible vermin.”
He becomes weak, wounded by the apple, and slowly dies. Grete’s change is different. She becomes stronger. She works outside as a saleswoman. She learns shorthand and French and studies music. Kafka says,
“His sister, who had taken a sales job, learned shorthand and French.”
Similarity in Suffering: Both Gregor and Grete suffer. Gregor suffers neglect. His sister once cared for him, but later she pushed food with her foot. Grete also suffers. She runs all day. She was working at her sales job in a shop. She was rushing around to serve customers as they demanded. Both lives become full of hardship.
Difference in End: Gregor dies unloved in his dark room. The cleaner shouts,
“It’s dead, just lying there, stone dead!”
His life ends in despair. Grete, however, grows into a woman ready for marriage. The ending says her parents saw their daughter as a beautiful young lady. Gregor’s metamorphosis is tragic, Grete’s is hopeful.
Gregor’s metamorphosis is physical, painful, and ends in death. Grete’s metamorphosis is emotional, strong, and ends in growth. Both suffer in the Samsa house, but only Grete finds a new life. This shows Kafka’s irony of change in the Samsa family.