According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the word “Metamorphosis” means a major change in the appearance or character of someone or something. In biology, it means a major change in the form or structure of some animals or insects that happens as the animal or insect becomes an adult, for example, the metamorphosis of tadpoles into frogs.

It is obvious that “metamorphosis” refers to the change that happens on Gregor’s body. But in my opinion, “metamorphosis” also happens on Gregor’s family members, father, mother, and his sister. Although their appearances do not change, their major changes happen on their behavior and spirit. After Gregor became an insect, the story recalls the time when Gregor is working, “They had been good times, and they had never returned, at least not in that magnificence, even though Gregor went on to earn so much money that he was able to bear, and indeed bore the expenses of the whole family. The just become used to it, both family and Gregor”(Kafka 224). Gregor’s family members just like insects; they only accept the money and life which Gregor makes and take it for granted. Contrary to the ending of the story, the author states, “Setting back comfortably in their seats, they discussed the prospects for the future; it turned out that on closer inspection these were not at all bad, because the work of all of them, which they had yet to talk about properly, was proceeding in a very encouraging way, particularly in regard to future prospects” (Kafka 241). Their life changes from caterpillars to butterflies. Gregor’s death teaches them how to live on themselves.

I like the story because it reflects the real life. I strongly agree with the situation when Gregor become useless and even the extra burden for the family, all of his family members change their attitudes to Gregor. It is true. I can be filial obedience to my parents, but for my siblings I cannot promise it. It also makes me remember the wedding vows,” I, ____, take you, ____, to be my lawfully wedded(husband/wife), to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part”. In reality, how many couples can keep their promise when they meet with the similar situation as Gregor’s change?