The Metamorphosis characters
by Franz Kafka, 1915
The main characters of The Metamorphosis, who they are and what they do in the story.
Gregor Samsa
protagonistGregor is a traveling salesman who wakes up one day to find himself transformed into a giant insect. He struggles with his new identity and the isolation it brings from his family.
Grete Samsa
supportingGrete is Gregor's sister who initially cares for him after his transformation. Over time, she becomes resentful and insists on getting rid of Gregor.
Mr. Samsa
supportingMr. Samsa is Gregor's father, who becomes hostile towards Gregor after his transformation. He struggles with the financial burden of supporting the family.
Mrs. Samsa
supportingMrs. Samsa is Gregor's mother, who is torn between her love for her son and the horror of his transformation. She is emotionally fragile and often faints.
Chief Clerk
antagonistThe Chief Clerk is Gregor's manager, who visits the Samsa household to inquire about Gregor's absence from work. He is shocked by Gregor's appearance and quickly leaves.
Charwoman
supportingThe Charwoman is the cleaning lady who discovers Gregor's lifeless body. She is practical and unfazed by Gregor's transformation.
Lodgers
supportingThe Lodgers are tenants the Samsa family takes in to make extra money. They become upset upon discovering Gregor and eventually leave.
Meet them in the book
Read The Metamorphosis free on the 12-month plan, with a tracker, tap-to-translate vocabulary and a quiz at the end.