1840-1920s: Kafka writes at a time when the drudgery of work is becoming a serious issue. Long hours at boring jobs create alienation. And tyrannical employers like Gregor's are the norm.
Twentieth Century: Computers and other advances have allowed for more flexibility for employees, including flex time and telecommuting. Since computers can handle some of the more tedious and repetitious aspects of work, work for some may also be more intellectually stimulating. Also, the trend now is to promote friendlier employer-employee interactions. However, there are new employment problems today, and it is doubtful that the sort of work alienation depicted in Kafka's story has been eliminated altogether.
1840-1920s: In Kafka's day, it is common for reasonably well-off families to employ full-time live-in servants to cook and clean and do other menial chores.
Twentieth Century: Full-time servants.....
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