Communication in The Metamorphosis Makayla Powell College

Language is definitive of humanity. Spoken, written, or signed, every type of communication is essential to human interaction and is a crucial feature of civilization that differentiates humans from animals. Franz Kafka, author of The Metamorphosis, understood this and uses communication throughout the novel as a symbol of the transition from human to creature, illustrating Gregor’s loss of humanity through his loss of speech. Within The Metamorphosis, Gregor’s inability to communicate with others through speech or written language is ultimately the determining factor in his alienation from his family and society as a whole. This can be seen through the family’s initial lack of communication, Grete and Gregor’s strained relationship, miscommunication, Gregor’s deteriorating mental health, and his father’s violence.

Emma Seppala of the Stanford Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education, and author of the book ‘The Happiness Track,’ wrote, “People who feel more connected to others have lower levels of anxiety and depression. Moreover, studies show they also have higher self-esteem, greater empathy for others, are more trusting and cooperative and, as a consequence, others are more open to trusting and cooperating...