Recall
In what year is the story set?
The story is set in the year 2081.
What is the name of Harrison’s father?
His father’s name is George Bergeron.
What physical handicap does George carry around his neck?
He wears a bag of birdshot weights around his neck.
What happens to George whenever he begins to think deeply?
A loud noise goes off in his ear through the handicap radio transmitter, scattering his thoughts.
How old is Harrison when he escapes from jail?
Harrison was 14 years old.
Why doesn’t Hazel need any mental handicaps?
She is of average intelligence and cannot think deeply or for long.
What interrupts George and Hazel while they are watching television?
George is interrupted by loud noises in his ear through the transmitter.
Who shoots Harrison and the ballerina at the end?
The Handicapper General, Diana Moon Glampers, shoots them.
. Why doesn’t George cry when Hazel begins crying?
Because the noises in his ear prevent him from remembering or feeling deeply.
What does the “ballerina’s mask” symbolize in the story?
It symbolizes the suppression of beauty and individuality
Why do you think the government uses loud noises to interrupt George’s thoughts instead of another method?
Because loud noises are immediate, jarring, and universally disruptive, making them effective at controlling thought.
What does the scene with the ballerinas suggest about the society’s attitude toward beauty?
It shows society fears beauty and talent, treating them as dangerous and something to be hidden.
Why does Hazel quickly forget why she was crying at the end?
Her weak memory shows how the society’s system prevents deep emotional connection and reflection.
What does Harrison’s rebellion and brief “coronation” symbolize?
It symbolizes the human desire for freedom, individuality, and greatness.
How does Vonnegut use irony in the ending with George and Hazel watching TV?
The irony is that despite witnessing their son’s dramatic death, they are unable to remember or respond, highlighting the emptiness created by forced equality.
What is the real purpose of the “Handicapper General” in the society?
To enforce conformity and suppress individuality under the false promise of equality.
What interrupts George’s thoughts?
Noises
Who enforces the laws of equality?
Glampers
What object weighs George down?
Birdshot
What does Harrison declare himself on TV?
Emperor
Word meaning “forced sameness”?
Equality
Word for “a short, sudden burst of sound”?
Blast
What handicap does George wear on his ear?
He wears a radio transmitter that blasts noises.
Who kills Harrison at the end?
Diana Moon Glampers kills him.
Why doesn’t Hazel have handicaps?
She has average intelligence and cannot think deeply.