After exploring both the existentialistic and metaphysical aspects of Franz Kafka's The Metamorphosis, I realized that the story was richly filled with other significant themes. These themes help to make this story one of the most unique and intelligently written novellas written in its time and place.
             Perhaps the most noteworthy theme in the story is that of isolation. After Gregor transforms into an insect, everyone who sees him, including his family, rejects him. No one wants to look at him or talk to him about his situation. The chief clerk runs away in horror as soon as he sees him. His father locks him back into the room and then injures him with the apples. His mother faints when she sees him, which is understandable, but even after waking up never makes a kind gesture towards him. Gregor's only family member to show compassion is his sister Grete. The care she shows her brother gives him hope of survival, but after he overhears her saying she wishes he would go away, both his hopes and ultimately his body dies. The lodgers are absolutely horrified by the sight of the giant bug. Anyone who sees him wants to get away from him as soon as they can.
             Gregor's family alienates him by treating him as is he was an actual bug when he is still Gregor, only in the form of a bug. Instead of worrying about his fate, they become worried about how his transformation is going to affect them. They are much more concerned with what they are going to do without a breadwinner for the family rather than a cure for their son's condition.
             Gregor also feels very alienated by his family through his inability to speak to them. Also, after his father injures him, he can barely move. He sits in the room which becomes filled with more filth every day. He watches his family live their lives in silence and is not able to express his feelings to them.
             Exploiting Others as a Means of Survival
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