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  • Most translations of The Metamorphosis describe Gregor as having been transformed into a "giant insect". However, the phrase Kafka uses in the original is ungeheueren Ungeziefer, which has been more recently and more accurately translated as "monstrous vermin". Although the story doesn't skimp on describing how Gregor has really become some kind of insect, the original phrase used to describe what he's become emphasises not the sci-fi aspect of what's happened (Man Becomes Bug!), but the fact that Gregor has become something disgusting and contemptible.
    • Yes. Also, "Ungeziefer" is the insult Franz Kafkas father used to call him (see "Letter to His Father")

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