Kafka Metamorphosis

Gregor Samsa

Main character who transforms into an insect; feels trapped by work and family duty.

Grete Samsa

Gregor’s sister who first cares for him but later rejects him.

Mr. Samsa (Father)

Gregor’s father, hostile and violent; throws apples at Gregor.

Mrs. Samsa (Mother)

Gregor’s mother, torn between sympathy and fear of him.

The Chief Clerk

Gregor’s boss’s representative; horrified by Gregor’s appearance.

The Lodgers

Boarders who rent a room; disgusted when they see Gregor.

The Cleaning Woman

House cleaner who is unfazed by Gregor; disposes of his body.

Part 1 Key Event

Gregor wakes as insect; family and boss horrified; father forces him back into room.

Part 2 Key Event

Grete feeds Gregor; furniture removed; Gregor injured by father’s apples.

Part 3 Key Event

Gregor weakens; violin scene; Grete declares they must get rid of him; Gregor dies.

Theme: Alienation

Gregor is cut off from work, family, and society after his transformation.

Theme: Family Duty

Gregor’s financial support shifts; family resents and rejects him.

Theme: Identity

Gregor clings to human objects to preserve dignity despite physical change.

Symbol: Apples

Represent rejection and punishment; one apple rots in Gregor’s back.

Symbol: Violin

Symbol of Gregor’s humanity and emotional response; tied to Grete.

Symbol: Writing Desk

Represents Gregor’s lingering dignity and intellectual identity.

Symbol: Doors

Mark separation between Gregor and his family; symbolize isolation.

Symbol: Food

Show Gregor’s shift from human tastes to insect instincts.