Kafka's Metamorphosis Analysis

In Kafka’s Metamorphosis, there are numerous transitions in all of the characters, both physically and mentally. At the beginning of the story, the family appears lopsided, as they desperately rely on Gregor for economic stability. Therefore, he holds much of the authority in the family, contrary to the traditional paternal authority in most families. Although the family begins in a discombobulated and static state dependant on Gregor, they gradually evolve into more independent individuals, until they ultimately experience a rebirth and become hopeful for the future. Immediately after Gregor 's metamorphosis, they gradually evolve their perception of reality to become more self sufficient, and the responsibility of the family returns back

Samsa embarks on a very evident transition immediately following Gregor’s metamorphosis. With the family in economic turmoil, he was forced to retire from his life on the couch as a weak and lazy man, and re-enter employment. Because he is now earning the money to sustain the family, he re assumes his patriarchal authority in the family. This authoritative position is seen through Kafka’s use of the metaphor of the father’s uniform. “With a kind of perverse obstinacy his father refused to take off his official uniform even in the house, and while his robe hung uselessly on the clothes hook, his father dozed, completely dressed, in his chair, as if he were always ready for duty and were waiting even here for the voice of his superior.” This uniform represents the newly acquired authority of the family and that now that he has gained it, he refuses to give it up. The authority in the family has been earned by both Gregor and his father by being the one who can economically provide for the family. Now that the father has assumed this role and this uniform, there is never any need to let it down, even (and especially) at home. With his reaffirmed role and the pride he takes in his authority, it is evident that Mr. Samsa is determined to continue to provide for his family. When he assumes the authoritative role, he also becomes increasingly protective over Grete and Mrs. Samsa. This protection is aimed

They are finally released from the shackles of his burden, and begin to look forward hopefully into the future. Emerging from this transition is Grete, no longer sheltered as a young teenager, but considered a mature woman, with good prospect in becoming married. Also, Mr. Samsa, traveled from being dependant on his son to becoming totally self-reliant, leading this rebirth of the family with authority. The family is no longer divided with Gregor as the partition. They are a united group, moving on and looking forward into their prosperous futures. Through the presence of these transitions of consciousness, Kafka emphasises optimism of humanity 's ability to persevere, regardless of the