Symbolism Prompt

In The Metamorphosis Kafka allows the beetle to be more than an insect, but a symbol signifying humanity as a whole.

Kafka uses Gregor’s character to represent humanity and all of its faults. Gregor is transformed into a bug as a way to further demonstrate to the readers the symbolism prevalent in the novel. As a bug Gregor is forced into solitude and loneliness, just as humans are pushed into their own solitude. Even with his family Gregor remained alone. Society structures itself in such a way that independence is not only encouraged but forced; Kafka recognizes this fatal flaw and points it out using Gregor as its device.

Kafka also utilizes Gregor as a tool to reveal the humanity’s cruelties, especially those formed from the solitude pressed upon society. Gregor’s family’s abandonment of Gregor after his metamorphosis represents the lack of attachment humans have with one another, and it grows worse. This solitude and unattached tendencies encourages humans to be cruel to one another, just as Gregor’s own family was cruel. His family would not even look at him, let alone help him in his dire situation, thus demonstrating humanity’s cruelties.

The many symbols present in Kafka’s novel contribute meaning and purpose to the novel. Without such devices, the novel would be simply an abstract story lacking any literary merit. Instead, Kafka’s acquired credibility allows him to unveil humans’ faults. He reveals his pessimism for humanity to his readers through his symbols. Symbols force the reader to think, and therefore appreciate all that Kafka has to say.

Through his own life experiences Kafka realizes that humans are prone to be lonely and in turn become cruel to one another as a way to maintain their solitude. This understanding is portrayed in his novel through Gregor’s character and by doing so provides the novel with purpose.