Metamorphosis Transition of Family Relations in "The Term Paper

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Metamorphosis

Transition of family relations in "The Metamorphosis" by Franz Kafka: an analysis of the path from disintegration to integration of the Samsa family

In 19th century Western literature, Franz Kafka is known for his explication and interpretation of life by subsisting to psychoanalytical analysis in creating his characters in his literary works. In a period where Sigmund Freud and Karl Marx's ideologies dominate and prevail in the society, Kafka ranks as one of the most contemplative writers confronting issues self-discovery and -- realization through literature.

"The Metamorphosis," a short story by Kafka, discusses the theme of the protagonist's path towards self-discovery and -- realization. Through the character of Gregor Samsa, Kafka reflects how his discovery and realization of his true self led to his further disintegration from his family, but paradoxically, has also strengthened family relations between his mother, father, and sister. That is, just as Gregor's self-realization leads to his isolation from his family, his isolation marks the pivotal point wherein the Samsa family (without Gregor) found meaning and unity among themselves as a family.

In this paper, the researcher argues that Gregor's self-discovery has become an event that allowed his family members to reflect on their true feelings and attitude towards their son and family in general. It can be said that "The Metamorphosis" illustrates that the lack of communication between Gregor and his family led to beneficial effects, resulting to the unity of the family to alienate him. In effect, lack of communication has only adversely affected Gregor and helped promote unity and understanding for the rest of the Samsa family.

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Kafka's symbolic approach to depicting Gregor's character in "Metamorphosis" illustrates how, prior to his metamorphosis to being an animal, there is evidence of lack of communication already between Gregor and his parents. As a hardworking individual, Kafka makes his readers realize that his parents took him for granted, despite his industry and thoughtfulness for his family: " ... even though Gregor subsequently earned so much money that he was enabled to shoulder the expenses of the entire family ... They had grown used to it ... they accepted the money gratefully ... But no particularly warm feelings were generated any longer" (29). This passage demonstrates how Gregor is merely a part of the family who has to accomplish a responsibility that his parents consider to be imperative for sons like Gregor. His industry and thoughtfulness meant nothing to his parents, except perhaps for the worth or value of the money he brings in for them.

Indeed, as he metamorphosed to become a hideous creature, the parents' true regard….....

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