The Metamorphosis, Chapter 2 summary
Chapter 2 of 3 · 29 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 2, Gregor adjusts to his changed body while Grete feeds him and he overhears the family’s financial worries. When Grete and their mother remove his furniture, he emerges to protect a picture, frightening his mother and provoking his father to attack him with apples.
What happens
- Gregor rejects milk, discovers a taste for spoiled food, and hides under the sofa while his sister cares for him.
- He overhears that the family has savings, but its members still need to earn money.
- Gregor begins crawling on walls and ceilings, while hiding himself beneath a sheet to spare Grete distress.
- Grete and their mother clear furniture from his room, but their mother’s objections renew Gregor’s attachment to his human belongings.
- Gregor protects a picture on the wall; his mother sees him and faints, and Grete shuts him away from her.
- His father pursues him and throws apples; one lodges in his back as his mother begs for his life.
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In this chapter
What to notice
The removal feels like a loss of Gregor’s personal life, not simply a practical change. His distress pushes him out of hiding.
Quick check
Why does Gregor press himself against the picture on the wall?
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