Studying the dehumanizing effects of commodification in Kafka's Metamorphosis via the lens of Adorno 's theory

In 1915, Franz Kafka penned the novella The Metamorphosis, one of the most influential works of 20th-century literature, renowned for exploring the darker facets of the human psyche. The story centers on Gregor Samsa’s transformation into an insect, leading to his isolation from family and society, and ultimately his solitary death. Theodor Adorno’s theory of commodification critiques the standardization and mass production of goods within consumer culture, viewing the culture industry as a capitalist tool that distracts individuals from societal issues. This framework is applied to The Metamorphosis to highlight capitalism’s dehumanizing effects, prioritizing profit over human dignity. Adorno’s perspective aligns with Kafka’s portrayal of mass culture’s alienating impact on the individual and society. A key consequence of commodification is the alienation of modern man, which reinforces capitalist and consumerist dominance. In the novella, the theme of alienation is vividly illustrated through Samsa’s transformation and subsequent rejection by his family and society, underscoring the destructive influence of commodities in the modern world.

کلیدواژه ها:

alienation ، capitalism ، consumerism ، workaholism