The Metamorphosis Essay 2

In The Metamorphosis, Franz Kafka uses symbols to tell his story; everything in the book has significance in his message. Kafka uses two symbols in particular to show that modern society destroys individuality.

Gregor Samsa, the protagonist, serves as the primary symbol in the novel. In fact, he has a dual symbolism: he represents twentieth-century man, but he also symbolizes the author. Like Kafka, he feels trapped into a role he dislikes, but he believes he has no choice. He wants to become an individual, but he cannot while he has to provide for his family. Like twentieth-century man, he feels restricted by society.

Grergor’s family represents twentieth-century society. They trap Gregor into his role as the family breadwinner, so can never truly find his individuality.

Gregor’s metamorphosis is in itself symbolic. He already feels isolated from his family; his transformation only emphasizes this. His eventual death represents the death of individuality caused by modern society.

Kafka uses symbols in The Metamorphosis to give his message: that modern society kills individuality.