Character Changes Revealed by the Final Four Pages Essay Example
Although initially appearing insignificant, the final four pages of Franz Kafka's novel, The Metamorphosis, hold great importance as they unveil the transformation of the Samsa family after Gregor Samsa's demise. These pages distinctly depict the family's change through two specific instances: the kitchen table scene and the trolley scene.
During the kitchen table scene, the family members undergo a common change – they become more willing to do things on their own, displaying their newfound independence. A clear demonstration of this independence is their audacious act of composing "letters of excuse." Before Gregor's demise, the family relied entirely on him for financial support and had very few responsibilities. Kafka describes this lack of work when he states, "Gregor's parents had come to the firm conviction that Gregor was set for life in his firm . . . they were s
...o consumed by their immediate troubles that they had completely disregarded the future" (17). However, by taking the initiative and writing to their employers, Gregor's family reveals that they no longer rely on him.
Mr. Samsa's decision to fire the cleaning lady at the kitchen table proves that he has changed and can take responsibility (17). Grete and Mrs. Samsa also demonstrate their own change by not objecting to this decision. Firing the cleaning lady is a further step in the journey towards change.
The second revealing scene is the trolley scene, where Kafka exposes the family's future plans and the significant changes in Grete. Kafka also highlights that leaving the apartment together is "something they hadn't done in months" (58), further showing their newfound independence. Similarly, the family's intention to purchase a "smaller and cheaper apartment" (58) serves
as evidence of their independence. Kafka's remarks about Grete signify a different kind of transformation. Throughout all the chaos surrounding Gregor, Grete both physically and mentally matured. The thoughts that Grete evokes in her parents' minds reveal their positive aspirations for the future.
In brief, the final four pages of Kafka's novel hold great significance in the narrative. The instances at the kitchen table and on the trolley are pivotal in depicting the transformation occurring within the Samsa family. This transformation encompasses their shift in reliance on Gregor and Grete's psychological and physical alterations. Ultimately, Gregor's demise serves as a catalyst for these changes. Consequently, by the book's conclusion, every member of the family undergoes a profound individual metamorphosis.
Category: English
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