Comparing the Absurd in The Metamorphosis and Endgame Essay

The Absurd in The Metamorphosis and Endgame The Bedford Glossary of Critical and Literary Terms defines the Absurd as â€Å"A phrase referring to twentieth-century works that depict the absurdity of the modern human condition, often with implicit reference to humanity’s loss or lack of religious, philosophical, or cultural roots. Such works depict the individual as essentially isolated and alone, even when surrounded by other people and things.† (Murfin 2) Franz Kafka and Samuel Beckett were two of the more influential writers in this movement, as both The Metamorphosis and Endgame contain examples of this genre. While the Absurd did not fully develop until after his death, it owes much of its development to Kafka. The†¦show more content†¦His family for two reasons isolates him, the first and most obvious is because of his appearance. Secondly, since he was the only wage earner in the house, others must go out into the world to support the family. They depended on Gregor and now he cannot fulfill his duties to them. While eventually leading to his death, this withdrawal enables his family members to regain aspects of themselves that they had lost. â€Å"They withdraw from him, try to contain the damage, but in the process begin to change their own [lives] †¦ as well--Gregors father, who had been disabled, †¦ goes back to work; he changes from being an old man to a bank official holding himself very erect. Gregors sister also gets a job and seems on the verge of a new life.† (Coulehan 1) Martin Esslin comments that â€Å"This earlier tradition [of the absurd] had included the assumptions that human beings are fairly rational creatures who live in an at least partially-intelligible universe, that they are part of an ordered social structure, and that they may be capable of heroism and dignity even in defeat.† (10) This mirrors the end of the novella, as Gregor chooses to die rather than burden his family. â€Å"He thought back on his family with deep emotion and love. His conviction that he would have to disappear was, if possible, even firmer than his sister’s.† (Mack 2338) â€Å"After the 1940s, however, there was aShow MoreRelatedThe Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka Analysis of the story â€Å"The Metamorphosis†, by Franz Kafka was2200 Words   |  9 PagesThe Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka Analysis of the story â€Å"The Metamorphosis†, by Franz Kafka was written back in the early 1900’s, but reflected a more modern way of thinking and lifestyle of today. Gregor felt that he was a slave to his job, isolated from his co-workers, and misunderstood by his family. Although that is the norm in today’s society, it was not the norm back then. In the story Gregor finds himself transformed into a cockroach and his internal struggles become a permanent reality.