Oak Forest High School Literature & Language Arts Belonging Sense Argumentative Essay

Argumentative Essay (Unit 2) Essay Prompt/Brainstorming /Planning

The need to belong refers to the idea that humans have a fundamental motivation to be accepted into relationships with others and to be a part of social groups. This means that human beings must establish and maintain enduring relationships with others. Because Gregor is hurt by his alienation from his family we know he is still human on the inside of his bug body.

Thesis: In the story “The Metamorphosis”, one of most important themes is isolation/alienation. Through Gregor’s experiences, Franz Kafka affirms that, in order to survive and thrive, people need to feel a sense of belonging to others.

Part 1 WHY do people need to belong? WHAT do they need in order to feel that they do belong? Include references to your own life experiences (or what you’ve witnessed) AND Gregor’s experiences in the story.

My life experiences:

-People need to feel that they have someone to talk to who will listen

-People are looking for people they can trust

Gregor’s experiences:

-Gregor’s family gave him a sense of purpose in his life (before he was transformed)

-Gregor tried to stay connected/communicate with the family even after his body was a bug

-Gregor does not have friendships/love interests that he can connect to because he works so much

Part 2 What happens when people do NOT feel a sense of belonging? In other words, what are the consequences of feeling lonely/isolated? Include references to your own life experiences (or what you’ve witnessed) AND Gregor’s experiences in the story.

My life experiences:

-People can feel complex/overwhelming emotions such as sadness, anger, isolation,

Gregor’s experiences:

-Gregor begins to feel self-doubt, like he’s a burden to the family

-Gregor tries to keep a connection with this family by coming out of the room or at least listening through the doors that separate him (desperate need)

-Gregor feels deep sadness maybe even depression (no motivation, insomnia