What does Gregor think about his boss? This question often lingers in the minds of employees who find themselves working under a supervisor they don’t quite understand. In Franz Kafka’s classic novel “The Metamorphosis,” Gregor Samsa, the protagonist, provides a fascinating glimpse into the complex relationship between an employee and his employer. Through Gregor’s perspective, we can delve into the intricacies of his thoughts and feelings towards his boss, Mr. K. Herrmann, the man who holds the power over Gregor’s life and career.
Gregor’s thoughts about his boss are initially shaped by the expectations of his family and society. He is portrayed as a responsible and hardworking son, who has dedicated himself to supporting his parents and younger sister, Grete. As a traveling salesman, Gregor is constantly on the road, away from home, and under immense pressure to meet his sales targets. This constant pressure and the need to please his boss become ingrained in Gregor’s psyche, making him feel obligated to work tirelessly.
However, as the story progresses, Gregor’s perception of his boss begins to shift. His newfound realization that he is being exploited by Mr. K. Herrmann and the company he represents becomes evident through his interactions with his boss. Gregor’s metamorphosis into a giant insect symbolizes his transformation from a human being who is solely focused on fulfilling his duties to someone who is now able to observe and critique the world around him with a newfound clarity.
Gregor’s thoughts about his boss are further complicated by the fact that Mr. K. Herrmann is not a one-dimensional character. He is depicted as a cold and calculating individual who is more concerned with his own success than the well-being of his employees. This coldness is highlighted in Gregor’s realization that his boss does not care about his plight or the suffering he is going through. In fact, Mr. K. Herrmann’s only concern is the potential impact Gregor’s situation could have on the company’s profits.
As Gregor becomes more aware of his boss’s true nature, his feelings towards him evolve. Initially, Gregor is grateful to Mr. K. Herrmann for providing him with a job that allowed him to support his family. However, as he becomes more self-aware, Gregor begins to resent his boss for the toll his work and the expectations placed upon him have taken on his life. This resentment is further fueled by the realization that Mr. K. Herrmann is ultimately responsible for the decline of Gregor’s mental and physical health.
In conclusion, Gregor’s thoughts about his boss are a reflection of the complex relationship between an employee and his employer. As the story unfolds, Gregor’s perception of Mr. K. Herrmann changes from gratitude to resentment, highlighting the human cost of the relentless pursuit of success in a capitalist society. Kafka’s novel serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to question the true value of their work and the people they work for, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of the human condition.
