The Metamorphosis: Formalism Approach

Important Literary Devices Symbol Theme Motif Irony (situational, dramatic, verbal) Define each and explain the relationships among them.

What is a symbol? A symbol is something used for or regarded as representing something else/ a material object representing something, often something immaterial. Consider a/an Person Object Color Place Idea Some symbols are universal (mirrors, colors, cross, flag)

What is a theme? A dominant yet abstract moral proposition that advances through CHARACTER, ACTION, SETTING. Consider the effect of all three things when developing a theme. Not just topic - “Revenge” is not a theme. Potential Theme: Corruptible nature of revenge. Usually universal in nature; develop into universal statement (a “meaning of the work as a whole”)

What is a motif? Motifs are recurring structures, contrasts, literary devices that can help develop and inform the text’s major themes. Images and symbols contribute to motifs Repetitive in nature EXAMPLE: “Terrible Things” Theme= Negative effects of fear Motif= Denial Symbol=Silence

What is a motif? Motifs are recurring structures, contrasts, literary devices that can help develop and inform the text’s major themes. Images and symbols contribute to motifs Repetitive in nature EXAMPLE: Hamlet, Prince of Denmark Theme= Veiling of truth through deception Motif= Acting Symbol= Play

What is irony? Dramatic irony – This occurs when the reader or audience understands or knows more about the events of a story than a character. Situational irony – This occurs when what actually happens is the opposite of what is expected or appropriate. Verbal irony – A character says one thing but really means the opposite.

STOP AND THINK about The Metamorphosis… It is laden with symbols, themes, motifs, and irony even more so than other literature- why? What are the major Themes? Motifs? Symbols? Ironies? and what are their relationships to one another?

Final thoughts: Why can’t we chalk this story up to being a stupid piece of ridiculousness? How should author’s craft/form/style contribute to our understanding? How does Kafka use this to establish credibility?

Let’s get warmed up: Kafka’s narrative point of view in The Metamorphosis is called limited third-person. He tells us Gregor’s thoughts and feelings only. We do not learn what the other characters are thinking or feeling unless they show us by their words or actions. In fact, much of the novella is a kind of interior monologue of Gregor’s thoughts and feelings, told by the narrator. Why might a writer choose to use this POV-what is the effect of this POV? What other style/craft choices does Kafka make that affect the way the audience sees things?