Identification

The Metamorphosis is an example of irrealism, a mode of art and literature characterized by absurdity, estrangement and alienation. Read G.S. Evans' What Is Irrealism? In a short essay, identify the dominant elements of irrealism according to Evans, then discuss the ways in which Kafka's novella is an example of irreal literature. Be sure to cite both the article and the novella in defense of your claims. Submit via Pilot. 500-750 words. DUE DATE: Friday, Apr. 13, 9 a.m.

Discussion

Study the original cover for the first edition of The Metamorphosis and write a short essay explaining how it represents the novella. Why is the "monstrous insect" that Gregor Samsa turns into not depicted? What is the effect of its absence? Why is the door halfway open, revealing the darkness inside? Who is the person in front of the door, and why can't we see his or her face? These are a few of the questions you might ask yourself. Pay attention to specific details on the cover and be sure to cite the novel in support of the claims you make. 500-750 words. DUE DATE: Friday, Apr. 20, 9 a.m.

Summaries

In your own words, summarize the following three articles from the supplementary material in the Norton Critical Edition of The Metamorphosis:

Walter H. Sokel • Kafka's "Metamorphosis": Rebellion and Punishment
Nina Pelikan Straus • Transforming Franz Kafka's "Metamorphosis"
Mark M. Anderson • Sliding Down the Evolutionary Ladder? Aesthetic Autonomy in The Metamorphosis

Each summary should be 250 words long and formatted as a single paragraph. As always, be sure that your writing is revised and polished. Submit all three summaries on the same document via Pilot. DUE DATE: Wednesday, Apr. 25, 9 a.m.