Unpacking the meaning of Cat and Mouse

Requirements: After reading Franz Kafka's "A Little Fable" answer the questions with at least 3 sentences per question for full credit!

1. What do you think the mouse represents in this fable? How do its thoughts and actions reflect its circumstances?

Sentence starter: The mouse represents...

2. What is the significance of the cat at the end of the story? How does its presence shift the tone and message of the fable?

Sentence starter: It's significant because...

3. How does the concept of inevitability or fate play out in the story? Do you think the mouse has any control over its situation? Why or why not? 

Sentence starter: The story speaks to the idea of inevitability by... or The mouse does/does not have control because...

The Metamorphosis Questions for pages 1-8

Requirements: Use at least two quotes to back up your claims for full credit.

1. Why might turning into a large bug be suitable for an extended metaphor of the modern worker today?

(Think about how workers are often treated in the work place, whether their jobs are secure or if they are easily replaced, how Gregor's boss views him and his efforts.)

2. Why is it significant that Gregor rationalizes or ignores his pain and transformation as he contemplates going to work, what's most important to him?

(Consider his focus on his duties, relationship with his boss, fear of job loss, and dismissal of his own needs in favor of his role as a worker.) 

Illustrating a Scene!

Objective: Create a one to four panel illustration of the scene in The Metamorphosis that you find the most interesting, funny, or bizarre! Be sure to capture the mood, the action, and the humor! 

Requirements 

1. Your panels must use at least one quote from the novella (The Metamorphosis).

2. You must write a short artist statement where you draw attention to your inspiration, explanation of your favorite panel, or your intentions of highlighting some character's actions or thoughts. This should be at least five sentences long. 

Example outline of the chase scene on pages 15-20:  

• Panel 1: Set the scene. Show Gregor’s perspective or the chief clerk’s reaction at the metamorphosized Gregor.

• Panel 2: Highlight the chase. How does Gregor's transformation affect the dynamics? How would the chief clerk look as he ran and how would the desperate Gregor appear as he chases him? 

• Panel 3: Show the family's reaction to Gregor's chase.

• Panel 4: Show the outcome or how the family "solves" this issue!