Lirika Raça asked this question about The Metamorphosis:
Can someone tell me the reasons why this book is named The Metamorphosis? What are the reasons behind this name? I really need it and I wanna know why.
Sohini Banerjee Hey,

I read the book slightly differently. From my perspective, it's Gregor's physical transformation definitely - and even like Greek tragedies, his f…more
Hey,

I read the book slightly differently. From my perspective, it's Gregor's physical transformation definitely - and even like Greek tragedies, his fall from an elevated position to that of nothing. The same Gregor, who was once the bread earner and even the voice in the family, was now reduced to the state of a beetle, for no fault of his. The book in that sense is about his struggle and pursuit to be accepted and accept his present state.

But on the other hand, I also think it's the transformation of his family. In the beginning, it seemed like a not-so-close family, but towards the end they started making decisions collectively, they made compromises in life, they even started to fend for themselves. The ending says it all, when the decision to kill Gregor/the insect bonds them and they leave the house together, as a family. The observation by Mr.Samsa, that Grete had transformed into a lady, is probably doing justice to the title. (Hope you like this explanation as well)(less)
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