LF3 - Lesson: The Function of Character

A set of wooden blocks steadily transitions from natural wood color to blueThe Function of Character

Introduction

In Kafka's The Metamorphosis, the character transformation serves as a metaphor for the existential metamorphosis of the protagonist, Gregor Samsa. The image to the right serves as a visual metaphor for the same: the color transitions from natural wood to blue.

The physical change from human to insect in The Metamorphosis symbolizes a profound internal transformation, highlighting the theme of alienation and the disintegration of identity. Additionally, the character's choices and actions unveil the complexities within Gregor's psyche, providing insight into the impact of societal expectations and his struggle for autonomy in a world that fails to understand his true self.

Studying the Characters in The Metamorphosis

The complexity of The Metamorphosis rests on the fact that all of the characters in the family undergo a transformation. In fact, a complex interpretation of the novel might be that Gregor isn’t even the protagonist and that the rest of the family are the ones who grow and develop. Consider each character’s “metamorphosis”:

  • Gregor undergoes a physical metamorphosis, transforming from a human into a giant insect. This drastic change leads to his isolation and alienation from the family, as they struggle to comprehend and accept his new form.
  • Grete's attitude shifts from caring for Gregor to viewing him as a burden as the responsibility weighs on her. She transforms from a compassionate sister to someone who becomes increasingly indifferent, even advocating for Gregor's removal.
  • Mr. Samsa undergoes a transformation in his demeanor. Initially passive and feeble, he becomes more assertive and hostile, especially towards Gregor, reflecting a shift in family dynamics and the strain caused by the metamorphosis.
  • Mrs. Samsa's transformation is characterized by growing passivity. She initially shows concern for Gregor but gradually withdraws emotionally, symbolizing the family's inability to cope with the challenges posed by Gregor's metamorphosis.

The minor characters also have a symbolic role in the story:

  • The three renters symbolize a contrasting perspective to Gregor Samsa's transformation, offering insights into societal norms and expectations. Initially indifferent to Gregor's existence, they eventually grow more critical and demanding. Their character development underscores the theme of societal judgment and the dehumanizing impact of societal norms on those who deviate from expectations, providing a commentary on the lack of empathy in the face of the unconventional.
  • The servant is a minor character whose role highlights the societal reaction to Gregor Samsa's metamorphosis. The servant's initial shock and fear at the sight of Gregor's transformed state symbolize the general inability of society to comprehend or empathize with those who deviate from the norm. The servant's brief appearance serves to reinforce the isolation and alienation experienced by Gregor, emphasizing the dehumanizing impact of societal judgment on individuals who undergo unconventional changes.
  • Gregor's boss represents the dehumanizing nature of modern corporate society. The boss's abrupt and unsympathetic dismissal of Gregor highlights the lack of empathy and understanding in the face of personal struggles, illustrating the ruthless and impersonal nature of the workplace.

Practice Activity

Practice matching the textual evidence to the character. Notice that each quotation reflects some type of change in the character. You will fill in a blank with character names. Select from the following (use this exact spelling/capitalization when filling in blanks):

  • Gregor
  • Grete
  • Mr. Samsa
  • Mrs. Samsa
  • the servant woman
  • the main renter

Final Thoughts

In The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka, not only does Gregor undergo a profound physical and existential transformation, but the other family members also experience significant changes.

Gregor's sister, Grete, evolves from a caring sibling to a more indifferent and even hostile character as the burden of caring for Gregor becomes overwhelming. His father, initially portrayed as feeble, undergoes a transformation in his assertiveness, becoming more hostile towards Gregor. The mother, too, experiences changes as she becomes increasingly passive and withdrawn.

These character changes reflect the broader theme of alienation and the disintegration of family bonds. The family's dynamics shift dramatically as they grapple with Gregor's metamorphosis, highlighting the impact of societal expectations and the struggle for autonomy in a world that fails to understand and accept unconventional changes. The transformation of each character contributes to the overall portrayal of the dehumanizing effects of societal norms and the challenges of maintaining familial connections in the face of extraordinary circumstances.

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