Metamorphosis Symbols Flashcards

Study Notes

Symbolic Elements in Metamorphosis

Apple: Represents the beginning of Gregor's exile from his family, paralleling the biblical story of Adam and Eve's exile following the consumption of the forbidden apple.
Blindness/Nearsightedness: Reflects Gregor's isolation after his transformation; his nearsightedness symbolizes his singular focus on work and neglect of his new reality as an insect.
The Lodgers: Shift authority dynamics within the household, exerting control over Gregor's family despite being outsiders. They symbolize the inversion of familial roles.
Gregor's Room Door: Acts as a barrier that signifies the disconnect between Gregor and his family, emphasizing his alienation.
The Hospital: Represents unattainable help; it embodies Gregor's longing for assistance, which remains forever out of reach.
Gregor's Job: As a traveling salesman, it symbolizes his pre-existing isolation and despair, illustrating his detachment even before his physical transformation.
Gregor's Boss: Critiques capitalism; the pressure of potential job loss highlights the harsh realities and lack of empathy in the capitalist system.
Jobs: Reflects societal values of the time; work serves as a core aspect of life during the Industrial Revolution, influencing individual identities and relationships.
Various Rooms in the House: The structure of Gregor's room suggests its central location, indicating his importance to the family despite their desire to distance themselves from him.
Metamorphosis: Gregor's transformation into a bug symbolizes profound alienation and estrangement experienced in his existence.

Description

Explore key symbols from Kafka's 'Metamorphosis' through engaging flashcards. This quiz highlights significant symbols like the apple, blindness, and the lodgers, examining their meanings and implications within the story. Perfect for literature students looking to deepen their understanding of this classic work.