Author Question: Does Grete change in the course of the story? If so, how does she change? What will be an ideal ... (Read 207 times)

sarasara · **on:** Jul 20, 2018

Does Grete change in the course of the story? If so, how does she change?

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

How does the family react to Gregors death?

What will be an ideal response?

raenoj · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 20, 2018

Answer to Question 1

One of the strangest features of The Metamorphosis is its closing paragraph. Having lost their only son, the Samsas undergo a quiet transformation into a secure and loving family. The final image is quite unexpected. The parents notice Grete becoming more vivacious. In spite of all their recent troubles, she had blossomed into a pretty and shapely girl. It is time, they decide, to find her a good husband. Immediately after Gregors unceremonious funeral, they are already planning a marriage. At least one critic has claimed that the title, The Metamorphosis, refers to Grete rather than Gregor; she has been transformed from a girl into a young woman. Her transformation brings the promise of new life while Gregors brought only death.

Answer to Question 2

When the charwoman announces that Gregor is dead, the parents rush out of bed to check the evidence in their sons room. Well, says Gregors father, now thanks be to God. They cross themselves, but only Grete shows some sympathy. Just look how thin he was, she observes. When Gregors mother invites her daughter to sit beside them in their bedroom, Mrs. Samsa already has a sad smile. When they finally emerge from the bedroom, they appear to have been crying, but their grief is short-lived. They are openly relieved that Gregor is gone. They soon appear more vigorous and determined. They make plans for the future. When the charwoman disposes of the body, she is grinning. The family is now openly confident and affectionate for the first time