Vocabulary
Definition: without energy or interest
Listlessly
How does Gregor first react when he discovers that he has become an insect?
He is very unbothered/nochalant. He intends to carry on like everything is normal, go to work, etc.
What does Gregor Samsa do for a living?
He is a traveling salesman.
What event most significantly leads to Gregor's deterioration?
His sister, Grete, no longer shows compassion for him and treats him with indifference.
Definition: unhappiness or pain
Distress
What is the most important reason in Gregor's mind for holding on to his job as a traveling salesman?
He feels responsible for the financial support of his family (has to pay off his parent's debt).
Who is Gregor's primary caretaker?
His sister, Grete.
What does Gregor's bug body symbolize?
His loss of humanity/loss of identity
Definition: difficult situation or work
Travail
What is Grete's attitude toward her brother, Gregor?
She is sympathetic/caring at first, but grows to blame him and dislike him because of how difficult life has become for her.
What person shows up at the apartment to speak with Gregor?
His manager.
Gregor's bedroom represents what major theme of the story?
Alienation and Isolation
If a person has a strong dislike for broccoli, you might say they have an _________ to it.
How do the family members justify their decision to get rid of the insect?
The convince themselves/Grete convinces them that the insect is not Gregor.
This character reacts harshly to Gregor's transformation and treats Gregor poorly.
Mr. Samsa / Gregor's father
Gregor's parents and sister eventually are able to make their own living without Gregor's earnings. What do their efforts reveal about them?
They became determined and self-reliant instead of allowing a difficult situation defeat them.
What is the definition of Amelioration?
What ultimately happens to Gregor at the end of the story?
He dies alone and the cleaning lady throws out his body. (He starves himself)
This character is conflicted and and distressed by Gregor's condition.
Mrs. Samsa / Gregor's mother
Why did the author have Gregor turn into a bug instead of some other animal?
To make him gross/repulsive; to isolate him from people because no one likes bugs