Topic > Metamorphoses by Franz Kafka - 727

Metamorphoses by Franz Kafka points to the challenges of life in an advanced modern society and the battle for the recognition of others when they find themselves in a time of need. In this novel Kafka reflects directly on many of the opposing aspects of his life, both rationally and physically. The relationship between Gregor and his father is, in many ways, like Franz and his father. The Metamorphosis also demonstrates similarity to some sections of Kafka's diary which portray him imagining his elimination through many unfolding strategies. Franz Kafka lived his childhood in a monetarily secure Jewish family in Prague. He spoke German and was not Czech or German due to his Jewish childhood. Born in 1883, he was the eldest and only male. He continued his life in the shadow of his overwhelming father under the constant burden of taking control of the family business. Kafka's father saw Franz as a disappointment and opposed his written work because he needed Franz to be as dedicated to the business as he was. This fixation on wanting Franz to dedicate himself to the activity led him to beat his son. Franz Kafka died on 3 June 1924 from tuberculosis of the larynx. From the moment we meet Father Gregor we realize his irascible character. He "came hissing like a wild man" when Gregor initially left his room in his new insect state. Gregor's father chased him with a stick and newspaper, making a hissing noise that annoyed Gregor. Kafka was subjected to abuse and constant screaming by his father because he was a disappointment in his eyes. The moment his father sees what has happened to Gregor he is immediately offended, either out of disorder or frustration because... middle of paper... he is imperceptible to any of his family members. Kafka may have chosen for Gregor's death to occur over a long period of time to deal with the agony of losing someone suddenly. Dying suddenly would have been a shock to his relatives, but instead it started to become a problem, so his death was practically a relief. It may be that with Kafka's low self-esteem he considered himself Gregor, who is similarly despised by his father in light of the fact that he is disappointed in him. Kafka reflects the belief that one is treated worse by being more liberal and altruistic than another. This perspective conflicts with how things should be run. The man should be treated with understanding for his actions, so also Gregor should be highly valued by his family paying little attention to his status due to his adoration towards them.