Chapter: 04. A Strange Transformation
New Comprehension Questions
A. Answer these questions.
How did Gregor’s transformation affect his ability to perform simple actions like sleeping or moving? What significant event happens just as Gregor finally manages to get out of bed? Describe the initial reaction of Gregor to his transformation. Did he panic immediately? What picture hung on Gregor’s wall, and what does it tell us about his past interests? What was Gregor’s main financial concern, and how did his job relate to it? B. Answer these questions with reference to the context.
“He lay on his armour-hard back and saw, as he lifted his head up a little, his brown, arched abdomen divided up into rigid bow-like sections.” a. What physical sensation would Gregor likely be feeling as he tried to lift his head in this position? b. What does the description “armour-hard back” suggest about Gregor’s new body? c. How does this sentence immediately establish the central conflict of the story? “A man must have his sleep. If I didn’t hold back for my parents’ sake, I would’ve quit ages ago.” a. What does Gregor mean by “A man must have his sleep”? b. What does this quote reveal about Gregor’s feelings towards his parents and his job? c. What future action does Gregor plan to take once his parents’ debt is paid? “But I must not stay in bed uselessly,’ said Gregor to himself.” a. What does this statement reveal about Gregor’s character, despite his transformation? b. What challenges does he immediately face in trying to act on this thought? c. What feeling might Gregor be experiencing when he calls himself “useless”? C. Deeper Thinking / Personal Response (These questions encourage students to think beyond the text and connect to their own experiences.)
If you were Gregor’s family, how would you react upon discovering his transformation? Would your first instinct be fear, shock, or something else? Explain why. The story touches upon the idea of identity. How do you think Gregor’s identity changes (or doesn’t change) after his transformation, considering his thoughts and feelings? ‘A Strange Transformation’ is called a surreal story. Based on what you’ve read, why do you think this classification fits the chapter? What elements make it feel surreal? 
Comprehension