Final answer:
The Samsa family's second maid refers to Gregor Samsa as “it” after his transformation in Franz Kaf_ka’s novella “The Metamorphosis.” The term “it” signifies her disgust and the dehumanized view she has towards him, which underscores the theme of dehumanization in the story.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question refers to a character in Franz Kaf_ka’s novella “The Metamorphosis,” where the Samsa family's second maid refers to Gregor after his transformation. In the story, the second maid shows disgust and refers to Gregor as “it.” This term indicates her view of Gregor as less than human, as he has turned into a giant insect, leading to her inability to recognize him as the family member he once was. The term she uses underscores the central theme of dehumanization in Kaf_ka's work. The maid's reference is significant as it shows the changing dynamics within the household and the family's gradual detachment and alienation from Gregor.