The Metamorphosis: day four (35-45)

During this part of the novel, the family begins to perceive Gregor's humanity in a different light. For example, Grete leaves milk for Gregor, remembering that milk was his favorite drink as a human. Thus, Grete assumes that although Gregor has now transformed into a bug, a little part of him remains the same. However, Grete soon realizes that Gregor does not like normal food anymore. He crawls on the walls, lounges underneath the sofa, and eats like an insect. In addition, Gregor's father does not regard Gregor as a human anymore. After his father comes home, he misunderstands his wife's screaming for Gregor attacking his wife. His father's immediate impulse is to find Gregor and beat him like a pest. However, Gregor suffers from an internal conflict. There are moments when he feels human. For example, Gregor feels relieved that his family did not spend all of the money he saved for them, but feels ashamed that he cannot financially provide for them anymore. He still feels a part of the family and yearns for them to need him again. Moreover, he covers a sentimental photograph of a woman with fur so his sister and mother won't remove it with the rest of the furniture. Gregor's humanity is fully exposed when he hovers over this prized possession.