Question

In at least 200-300 words regarding one reading below:

Identify the theme or thesis of the reading:


The theme is the message or moral of the story; it MUST be a complete sentence! Think about these two questions: what does the main character learn? What lesson do we, as readers, learn? A thesis is the author’s main point, a summary sentence of what the article is trying to prove. They are essentially different ways to say the same thing.


Example of a theme from a fictional piece: You have to love yourself before you can love someone else.
Example of a thesis from a nonfiction piece: In the article “Title,” Author articulates that in order to ______, we must _____.”


Support your claim with at least two pieces of evidence (quotes or paraphrases from the text, formatted in bold).


Be sure to select one of the readings from this unit below
and identify your selection in the first sentence of your response.

4.1.2 “Bugging Out about Word Choice” (article)
4.1.5 The Metamorphosis, Part One (novella)
4.2.1 “Letter to His Father” (letter)

Answer 1

In The Metamorphosis, Part One, Kafka illustrates the theme that the dehumanization of individuals, both by themselves and by society, leads to isolation and alienation. The main character, Gregor Samsa, transforms into an insect and struggles with the emotional and physical consequences of his new form. His transformation is not only a literal change but also represents his internal sense of alienation and the way others perceive and treat him.

Gregor’s metamorphosis reveals how people can be valued only for their utility, and once that is gone, they are discarded. This is seen in the way his family reacts to his new form. His sister, Grete, initially cares for him, but as time goes on, her empathy fades. She eventually expresses frustration, saying, “We must try to get rid of it.” This statement underscores how quickly Gregor’s family, who once relied on him financially, loses their compassion and simply views him as a burden. Gregor, in turn, feels isolated, as he becomes unable to communicate or relate to anyone. This alienation culminates when Gregor’s father drives him away by throwing an apple at him, injuring him. The apple symbolizes how Gregor is no longer part of the family, and his isolation is complete.

The reader learns that societal and familial expectations can dehumanize individuals, reducing them to their usefulness. Gregor’s transformation serves as a powerful metaphor for how people can feel like they are losing their identity, especially when they are no longer able to fulfill the roles that society expects of them. This story teaches the painful consequences of neglecting and isolating others, and it raises questions about the value of individuals in a world that often measures worth by productivity.

Answer 2

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Answer 3

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Answer 5

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Answer 12

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Answer 13

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Answer 26

e