Active Reading

(10 points)

The Metamorphosis Chapter One

In the first chapter of The Metamorphosis, Kafka portrays Gregor as a dual being, both human and insect. For
example, Gregor must figure out how his new body functions and learn how to use his legs and turn over. At the
same time, he has the thoughts and feelings of a human being. As you read, use the word webs below to note
words, phrases, and other information about Gregors two selves.

He complains about his

grueling job as a
traveling salesman

HUMAN

Lying on his back, as

hard as armor plate

Insect

Symbolism in The Metamorphosis

As you no doubt can tell by now, The Metamorphosis is a highly symbolic text. Identify the following symbols to
determine their meaning.
WHERE DOES IT APPEAR IN
THE TEXT (in what context)?

MONSTROUS
VERMIN OR BUG

DOORS AND
WINDOWS

FOOD

THE APPLE

PICTURE OF THE
GIRL
IN GREGORS ROOM

SIGNIFICANCE IN THE STORY/ WHAT IS IT SYMBOLIC

OF (in relation to existential, surrealist and/or
modernist ideology) ?

THE DADS NEW

UNIFORM

BLINDNESS,
NEARSIGHTEDNESS

THE LODGERS

Themes in The Metamorphosis

THEME

Transformati
on

Economic
effects on
human
relationships

Family duty

Alienation /
Isolation

Freedom and
escapism

Guilt

SAY (quote)

MEAN

MATTER (in relation to existential,

surrealist and/or modernist ideology) ?

Personal
identity

Society &
Class