Role of Communication in The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka Anonymous 11th Grade

Communication plays a crucial role in Franz Kafka’s “Metamorphosis,” as the loss of communication eventually leads to the downfall and death of the novella’s protagonist, Gregor Samsa. Communication is of vital importance in order for a family to effectively function. Without communication, family members will not be able to understand each other, and everyone can become isolated. Once Gregor wakes up to find himself completely transformed into a different being that is unable to speak clearly, he loses an important link to his family. As he is unable to communicate verbally to any family members, they assume that it is no longer him, leading Gregor to starve himself to death as the last attempt to prove his humanity.

When Gregor Samsa realizes of his transformation, he is first unable to grasp the concept that his voice could possibly have changed along with his body. Gregor talks to his family across the room, assuming that his family members can understand him the same. His family and manager replies, “Did you understand a word? He isn’t trying to make fools of us is he?” and “maybe he’s seriously ill.” (Kafka 12). This leads Gregor to realize that although he can understand them, they cannot make out what he is saying. “...