The Metamorphosis : Characters

Characters

Major Characters

• Gregor Samsa: The central character of the novella. A traveling salesman (commercial traveler) who, one morning, suddenly transforms into a monstrous insect. Although he was the family’s main breadwinner, after his transformation, he became useless in the eyes of both family and society. His character symbolizes modern man’s alienation, self-sacrifice, helplessness, and dehumanized existence.
• Grete Samsa: Gregor’s younger sister. At first, she takes care of Gregor and shows him sympathy. But gradually, her sense of duty turns into resentment and hostility. In the end, she views Gregor’s death as a form of release. Her character reflects the limitations of human compassion and the reality of self-centeredness.
• Mr. Samsa: Gregor’s father. Once bankrupt, he had been dependent on Gregor’s income. After Gregor’s transformation, however, he regains authority and becomes aggressive. His character symbolizes the power structure within the family and oppressive paternal authority.
• Mrs. Samsa: Gregor’s mother. Emotional and affectionate, yet timid and dominated by her husband’s influence. She wishes to show sympathy toward Gregor, but often suppresses it out of fear of her husband. Her character reflects familial weakness and dependency.

Minor Characters

• Chief Clerk: A senior employee from Gregor’s office. He comes to the Samsa household when Gregor fails to report to work. His behavior is cold and authoritative. He represents bureaucratic oppression and the pressures of Gregor’s professional life.
• The Charwoman: An old cleaning woman employed by the family. She is bold but coarse in nature. Unlike others, she is not frightened by Gregor’s transformation and even treats him with curiosity. In the end, she is the one who disposes of Gregor’s corpse. Her character symbolizes life’s harsh reality and detached attitude.
• The Former Maid: The family’s previous servant. Unable to endure the terror of Gregor’s transformation, she quits her job and leaves. Though brief, her presence reflects human fear and helplessness.
• The Three Lodgers: Three gentlemen tenants taken in by the Samsa family when they face financial difficulties. They are strict, demanding, and utterly indifferent to Gregor’s existence. Their reactions symbolize the cruelty and selfishness of society.

Family and Relationships

• The Samsa Family: Comprising Gregor, Grete, Mr. Samsa, and Mrs. Samsa, the four make up the core family of the story. Their internal conflicts and psychological transformations drive the narrative forward.