Plot Twist / Power Plays
Why does Katniss volunteer for the Hunger Games, and how does this moment challenge the Capitol’s intentions for the Reaping?
She volunteers to save Prim, disrupting the Capitol’s goal of creating fear and passivity—showing resistance through love.
How does Katniss’s choice to hunt outside District 12’s boundaries reflect larger themes in the novel?
It shows survival through resistance, and how breaking rules becomes necessary under oppression.
Who is Caesar Flickerman, and why is he important to the televised Hunger Games?
He is the charismatic host of the Games, helping to shape public perception of the tributes and making violence more entertaining for the Capitol.
How is the fence around District 12 symbolic beyond just being a barrier?
It represents physical and mental oppression—keeping people confined and afraid.
Q: What is the industry of District 4, and why might its tributes be seen as dangerous in the arena?
Fishing—they're skilled swimmers, good with nets, and often physically strong.
What is the significance of the moment Peeta throws Katniss the bread?
It gives her hope and shows kindness in a world driven by survival.
What is the Capitol’s purpose in televising the Hunger Games, and how does it connect to the theme of control?
It entertains while asserting dominance and reminding districts of their powerlessness.
How does Effie Trinket represent the Capitol’s values, and how does her attitude clash with Katniss’s worldview?
Effie values appearance, rules, and tradition, while Katniss sees these as distractions from real suffering.
What does the mockingjay pin represent in the context of Katniss’s journey?
It becomes a symbol of resistance and unintended rebellion.
Q: How does the Capitol benefit from District 3’s focus on electronics and technology?
They use it for surveillance, control systems, and weaponry—tools of power.
What message is Katniss sending when she shoots the arrow through the apple in the pig’s mouth?
She’s demanding to be noticed and subtly challenging authority.
How does the theme of identity play out when Katniss is given a makeover by her prep team?
It questions whether she's being seen as herself or as a character created for the Games.
What is revealed about Haymitch’s character when he begins helping Katniss and Peeta seriously?
He’s deeply affected by his past trauma, but shows intelligence and care beneath his drunken, sarcastic surface.
Why is fire repeatedly associated with Katniss, especially in her stylist’s design?
Fire symbolizes change, rebellion, and the danger she represents to the Capitol.
Q: Why are the tributes from Districts 1 and 2 often referred to as “Careers”?
They’re trained from childhood and often volunteer, treating the Games like a profession.
Why is Peeta’s crush confession during the interview considered both a strategic and emotional move?
It gains public sympathy and repositions them as star-crossed lovers.
In what ways does Katniss’s distrust of Peeta tie into the theme of survival vs. humanity?
She wants to survive but doesn’t know if she can trust kindness — it creates inner conflict.
Why is Peeta’s act of kindness with the bread more than just a moment of charity?
It reflects personal risk and resistance, showing that even small actions can challenge the system.
Who are the "star-crossed lovers" in the games? How does this function as a symbol?
Peeta and Katniss
It symbolizes the Capitol’s tactic of turning real fear and survival into a love story for entertainment.
Pressure to perform emotions for an audience.
What is unique about District 13’s fate, and what might it suggest about the Capitol’s methods?
It was “destroyed” and hidden from history—suggesting cover-ups and fear of rebellion.
Why is Katniss’s training score of 11 both an advantage and a risk?
It highlights her skill and defiance, gaining attention but painting a target on her.
What role do the Peacekeepers play in reinforcing the Capitol’s themes of fear and order?
They maintain control through force, silence dissent, and symbolize the Capitol’s totalitarian reach.
Based on Chapter 10, can we trust that Peeta’s feelings for Katniss are real? Why or why not?
It’s unclear — his feelings could be sincere, manipulative, or both. The nature of the Games makes it hard to distinguish strategy from emotion.
What happens to The Hunger Games arena's after each year? What do they symbolize?
The arenas are preserved as tourist sites. They symbolize the Capitol’s control and serve as lasting reminders of fear, punishment, and power.
How does Rue’s background in District 11 (agriculture) shape her skills and alliance with Katniss?
She’s quick, plant-savvy, and gentle—traits rooted in her district’s labor and hardship.