The Metamorphosis

“When Gregor Samsa woke up one morning from unsettling dreams, he found himself changed in his bed into a monstrous vermin.”

Chapter 1

Gregor Samsa, a traveling salesman, awakens to find himself transformed into a giant insect. Confused and alarmed, he struggles to move but cannot leave his bed. His family knocks on his door, concerned about his absence from work. Gregor attempts to communicate but produces only inhuman sounds. His manager arrives, threatening job loss, and Gregor finally forces the door open, horrifying everyone. His father drives him back into his room with a cane.

Chapter 2

Gregor adjusts to his new form, hiding under furniture to avoid frightening his sister Grete, who brings him food. The family’s financial situation worsens, forcing them to take in lodgers. Gregor’s room becomes cluttered with discarded furniture, leaving him fewer places to hide. One night, he ventures out, drawn by Grete’s violin playing, but the lodgers spot him and demand to leave without paying. His sister declares Gregor a burden, and he retreats, heartbroken.

Chapter 3

Gregor weakens from neglect and an apple wound inflicted by his father. The family, now working menial jobs, resents him. Grete insists they must get rid of “the creature.” Gregor, realizing his family’s suffering, dies quietly by morning. The charwoman disposes of his body. Relieved, the family plans a hopeful future, free of Gregor’s burden.

Key Ideas

• Alienation and isolation in modern society.
• The absurdity of human existence and identity.
• Family duty versus personal sacrifice.
• Dehumanization under capitalism.
• The fragility of human relationships.

Notable Adaptations