Write an essay bringing out Gregor Samsa’s identity crisis as you find in Kafka’s novella The Metamorphosis.

Answer

Write an essay bringing out Gregor Samsa’s identity crisis as you find in Kafka’s novella The Metamorphosis.

Franz Kafka’s (1883-1924) “The Metamorphosis” (1915) tells the strange story of Gregor Samsa, a man who wakes up one morning to find himself transformed into a huge insect. The story is not only about physical change but also about the loss of identity. Gregor’s transformation shows how his sense of self slowly breaks down under family pressure, social rejection, and inner confusion. Kafka uses this change to explore how modern life can destroy a person’s true identity.

Gregor’s Identity Before the Transformation: Before turning into an insect, Gregor’s life already lacked freedom and individuality. He worked as a traveling salesman only to support his family. He was trapped in a job he hates. He worked tirelessly to support his family. Gregor says,

“Oh, God… What a strenuous career it is that I’ve chosen!”

Gregor never lived for himself. He never enjoyed his work or had personal dreams, except for one small wish—to send his sister Grete to a music school to learn violin. His identity was tied completely to his job and his role as the provider.

The Change and Loss of Human Identity:

“One morning, when Gregor Samsa woke from troubled dreams, he found himself transformed in his bed into a horrible vermin.”

When Gregor wakes up as an insect, he still thinks like a human being. He worries about missing the train, losing his job, and disappointing his family. But physically, he is no longer human. Kafka uses this moment to show how Gregor’s body and mind become separated.

He tries to speak, but his words come out as insect noise. His manager and family cannot understand him. This loss of communication is the first step in his identity crisis. Though Gregor feels the same from inside, no one can recognize him anymore.

Alienation and Emotional Confusion: As days pass, Gregor’s family locks him in his room.