The Metamorphosis, Chapter 3 summary

What happens

1. Gregor’s wound limits his movement, his care declines, and his room becomes storage space after three lodgers arrive.
2. Grete’s violin draws Gregor out; he imagines telling her about his intention to send her to the conservatory.
3. The lodgers see Gregor and refuse payment; Grete demands his removal, denies he is her brother, and locks his door after his retreat.
4. Gregor thinks lovingly of his family, accepts that he must disappear, and dies near dawn; the charwoman discovers his body.
5. Mr. Samsa orders the lodgers out, the charwoman reports disposing of the body, and Mr. Samsa announces her dismissal.
6. The family takes a countryside tram, discusses jobs and cheaper housing, and feels hopeful; the parents silently consider finding Grete a husband.

In this chapter

What to notice

Grete makes denying Gregor’s identity the basis for removing him. Her demand marks the family’s rejection, while Gregor still responds with affection.

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