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What Happens to Gregor's Body?

Published in Literary Character Disposal 2 mins read

After Gregor Samsa dies, his body is removed by the charwoman along with the household rubbish. The family does not need to worry about its disposal, as she takes care of it entirely.

The Charwoman's Role in Disposal

Following Gregor's demise, the charwoman, who discovers his lifeless body, takes swift and decisive action to remove it from the premises. Her method of disposal is notably unsentimental and efficient:

  • Removal from the Room: She enters Gregor's room and, without ceremony, removes his body.
  • Disposed with Rubbish: Gregor's remains are carried out of the room along with other household refuse, treating him as little more than trash.
  • Family Reassurance: The charwoman informs Gregor's family that they no longer need to concern themselves with his body, essentially taking the burden of disposal off their hands.
  • Unexplained Method: She does not explicitly detail how she disposes of the body, leaving the exact process to speculation.
  • Presumed Fate: It is widely assumed that she simply threw Gregor's body away, discarding it as common rubbish. This final, ignominious end highlights the complete dehumanization and detachment from Gregor's existence after his transformation.

This quick and unceremonious disposal contrasts sharply with the family's earlier struggles to cope with Gregor's presence, underscoring their profound relief and desire to move past the ordeal.