Grete Samsa, known as Gregor's sister, plays an important, underlying role in Kafka's The Metamorphosis. Just like her brother, Grete goes through a "metamorphosis" of her own, but instead of a sudden one (like Gregor experienced), it is a transformation that takes place over the six month period Gregor is an insect. From the novel, we can find numerous examples of Gregor noticing such changes in Grete.
One such example can be found in the way Grete treats Gregor throughout the novel. We first meet her at the beginning of the novel, when she affectionately pesters Gregor about why he has not left for work, asking, "'Gregor? Aren't you well? Is there anything you want?'" (66). Although Grete does not say much in this quote, the state of their relationship can easily be inferred. Grete goes out of her way to offer her assistance to her brother. Even after Gregor dismisses her, Grete does not let go of the matter, further whispering, "'Do open up, Gregor, please do'" (67). Grete knows something is wrong with Gregor, so she tries to help him in any way she possibly can. When their mother asks Grete to fetch a doctor to help Gregor, she is out of the door so quickly that it leads to Gregor being perplexed at the sheer haste she must have dressed up in (73). Grete does not even know what is wrong with Gregor, yet she leaves blind just to help him, revealing the strong brother-sister bond they both share.
When Grete discovers that Gregor has been transformed into an insect, she is repulsed at first, but eventually begins to pity him for his misfortune. Although the other members of her family refuse to set foot in Gregor's room, she steps forward, tending to his nutrition, hygiene, and comfort, effectively becoming his caretaker. But her opinion of Gregor changes as the novel progresses as can be seen in her reaction to Gregor when he tries to get Grete to play the violin in his room instead of in the presence of the lodgers, who he concludes are not worthy of her music. As soon as the situation with lodgers has calmed down, she cries,"'things can't go on like this. Perhaps you don't realize that but I do. I refuse to utter my brother's name in the presence of this monster, and so all I say is: we must try and get rid of it" (104). Grete no longer refers to Gregor by his name, not believing in the "idea that it's Gregor" (105) anymore. But what causes this stark change from the beginning of the novel? It lies in the fact that she has matured from when we first met her whispering through the door scene. Grete's responsibilities within the household have increased as her parents realized what an asset she is to the family. Most notably, she gets a job to help provide for her family financially. This lessens her commitment to Gregor and she begins to see caring for him as a chore, ultimately deciding it is time they get rid of Gregor.
This complete overhaul in opinion is very confusing to comprehend.What do you think about Grete turning her back to Gregor? Do you think she is justified in this decision?
