Mental Illness In Franz Kafka's Metamorphosis

One in five adults in America have a mental illness. That is over 43 million adults, 56% of which never receive any treatment (The State Of Mental Health). These numbers are only increasing as a result of the lack of awareness surrounding the issue. Because we cannot see the problem, we therefore pretend it does not exist, thus only causing more pain and suffering for those with mental illness. Mental illness is a term used for disorders that affect an individual’s mood, thinking and behavior. The philosopher and physician, Hippocrates, was the first to truly research mental illness and view it from a medical perspective rather than basing it on religious beliefs. Mental illness is a very prevalent theme in the novella Metamorphosis by Franz

Before this we know that he was a traveling salesman, causing him to be very lonely and have little friends. Upon waking up and discovering his transformation, he thinks back on his life and how he never had any real relationships. From his tone the readers can assume he was depressed, most likely without realizing it himself. This first morning is very eventful for Gregor and his family. His family and boss discover him as a giant bug and are afraid. His boss runs, his mother faints and the rest are disgusted. All but his sister, who feels sympathy for her brother. She takes care of him, leaving milk and bread, which were once his favorite foods, though now he strongly dislikes and does not eat them. His sister sees that the food is untouched, so she begins to leave him food scraps which Gregor seems to enjoy very much. At first he is troubled by his change and finds it difficult and painful at times to move about, however after some time in his new body, he grows to enjoy himself, climbing the walls and ceiling. His mother and sister move the furniture from his room, giving him more space. His family begins to resent him and starts to neglect him. They believe Gregor cannot understand them and therefore talk about him as if he is not there. He hears their unkind words and is saddened by them. He falls back into a depression and stays alone in his room. After some mishaps when strangers see