“Metamorphosis” by Kafka: Study Guide
I. 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, note words, phrases, and
other information about Gregor’s two “selves.
Metaphorically, what does it mean to be a "bug" or “vermin” or “verminous bug”? Provide several takes
on these terms—what comes to mind?
2. Make a listing of some of the humorous scenes/lines. How are they humorous?
3. Describe Gregor's room. What is the picture hanging on the wall?
4. Describe Gregor's own attitude and his reaction to his new predicament.
5. Describe what life was like for Gregor before his metamorphosis, at home and on job. How does he
feel about his job? What evidence in the story reveals his feelings? How much responsibility does he
have?
6. Describe everyone's reaction as they see Gregor come out of his room. What does this episode reveal
about Gregor’s father?
7. From Gregor’s point of view, what might be some positive aspects of his change into a bug?
8. Consider whether Gregor was like a "bug" even before his metamorphosis. How so?
9. Do you have sympathy for Gregor? If so, why and at what times? If not, why?
10. If you were on the scene, what questions would you the characters?
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II. Through Gregor’s reactions to different events, we learn more about him and about the ways in which he is
changing. Use the chart on this page to keep track of some of the events that reveal the changes he is
undergoing and your thoughts about the meaning of these events. Annotate events and what they mean.
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Describe how and what Gregor eats.
What is his family situation like? What is revealed about the family’s finances? How does Gregor
react?
How does Gregor's sister treat him differently from the way he is treated by his parents?
How does Gregor entertain himself?
How does Gregor feel about having his furniture removed? Why? What does this tell about him?
What kind of changes does Gregor notice in his father?
How is this like and different than fairy tales with animorphism? How would you describe Kafka’s style?
III. As the title The Metamorphosis suggests, the characters in the novella undergo significant changes in their
lives. How does Kafka show these? Analyze and annotate the development of changes in Gregor, Grete,
and Mr. Samsa.
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How does Gregor's family try to make life seem "normal" for themselves?
What prevents the family from moving to a smaller apartment?
How do they try to manage financially?
How has Gregor's attitude toward his family changed?
How has Grete's treatment of Gregor changed? Give some examples.
What changes take place in Gregor's room?
What is Gregor's attitude toward the roomers? Why?
Describe Gregor's reaction as he hears his sister play the violin.
Why do the roomers threaten to leave?
Describe the scene of Gregor's death.
Describe how each family member reacts when they hear that Gregor is dead.
On what note does the story end?
Who is responsible for Gregor's fate? How so?
What does Gregor’s metamorphosis mean?
15. How is the story to be interpreted in regard to expressionism (thoughts/feelings are more important
than objective reality), surrealism (power of the unconscious over the conscious to shape perception),
existentialism (essence is created by experience), and Freudism (human action is influenced by the
subconscious)?