Symbolism
This small golden object represents survival and rebellion for Katniss.
the mockingjay pin
This theme is shown when Katniss volunteers for her sister, proving she will do anything to protect her loved ones.
sacrifice
Katniss chooses to volunteer for Prim. How does this decision affect her character growth throughout the novel?
willingness to sacrifice for others and bravery
How does Katniss’ knowledge of hunting and foraging help her in the arena?
allows her to find food and water, giving her an advantage over others
Why does the Capitol force the districts to participate in the Hunger Games every year?
remind them that rebellion has consequences and to maintain control
This plant, which shares a name with Katniss’ sister, represents hope and healing.
primrose
The Capitol’s control over the districts and their strict rules highlight this theme of inequality
oppression?
Peeta confesses his feelings for Katniss during his interview. How does this help or hurt them in the Games?
helps them gain sponsors but also puts Katniss in a difficult position
Why is fire both an advantage and a disadvantage in the Hunger Games arena?
provides warmth and cooking but also alerts enemies to location?
remind them that rebellion has consequences and to maintain control?
they introduce fires, mutate animals, and change supplies to create drama?
This symbolizes the Capitol’s power and control over the districts, as well as the consequences of disobedience.
the Hunger Games
Katniss and Peeta must act like they are in love to gain sponsorships, showing this theme of pretending to be something they are not.
deception
Why does Katniss hesitate to form alliances in the arena, and how does her perspective change?
fears betrayal at first but realizes trust can be a survival strategy
Why does Katniss avoid water at first when looking for a hiding place?
she assumes the Gamemakers placed water near the Cornucopia, making it dangerous
Why is District 12 always at a disadvantage compared to wealthier districts in the Games?
they lack proper training and resources, unlike the Career tributes?
This represents both life and destruction for Katniss throughout the Games, depending on how she uses it.
Fire
The way the Capitol forces districts to send tributes and watch them die for entertainment highlights this dark theme.
cruelty of entertainment
Why does Katniss choose to decorate Rue’s body with flowers after her death? What message is she sending?
defying the Capitol by honoring Rue as a human rather than just a fallen tribute
How does Rue’s knowledge of plants and the arena layout help Katniss survive?
Rue warns her about tracker jackers and helps her find food and shelter
Why does the Capitol discourage strong friendships and alliances between districts?
to prevent them from uniting against the Capitol and rebelling
This food symbolizes friendship and survival, as it was once given to Katniss by Peeta when she was starving.
Bread
Katniss and Rue’s alliance shows this theme, proving that even in a deadly game, people can form genuine connections.
trust and loyalty
Why does Peeta decide to separate from the Career tributes and go on his own
he realizes they will eventually turn on him, and he wants to protect Katniss
What does Peeta do to camouflage himself, and why is it effective?
he uses his cake-decorating skills to blend into the environment, making him hard to find?
What does the Capitol’s reaction to Rue’s death and District 11’s response reveal about their control over the people?
the Capitol fears uprisings and punishes those who show defiance, while the districts are beginning to resist