Characters
Who is the main character and fireman in the story?
Guy Montag
What do firemen burn instead of putting out fires?
Books
What does Montag do at the beginning of the book that he enjoys?
Burns Books
What emotion or state does society claim to prioritize above all else?
Happiness
What animal is associated with firemen on their uniforms?
Salamander
Who is Montag’s curious young neighbor who asks thought-provoking questions?
Clarisse McClellan
What are the large TV walls called that Mildred watches?
Parlor Walls
What happens to Mildred early in the story that alarms Montag?
She overdoses on sleeping pills
What is discouraged in this society: deep thinking or entertainment?
Deep Thinking
What number is associated with burning books?
451
Who is Montag’s wife, obsessed with the parlor walls?
Mildred Montag
What small devices do people use constantly to listen to media?
Seashell radios (earbuds)
What does Clarisse ask Montag that begins to change him?
"Are you happy?"
What does Clarisse represent compared to others in society?
Curiosity, individuality, and critical thinking
What does fire begin to symbolize differently for Montag?
Not just destruction, but also possible warmth/change
Who is the fire captain who explains why books are banned?
Captain Beatty
What mechanical creature is used to track and kill people?
The Mechanical Hound
What shocking action does the old woman take when firemen arrive?
She burns herself alive with her books.
According to Beatty, why were books banned over time?
To avoid offending people and eliminate conflicting ideas
What does the Mechanical Hound symbolize?
Government control and fear
Who is the old woman who chooses to burn with her books?
An unnamed old woman (often referred to as Mrs. Blake)
What is the main goal of this society regarding knowledge and thinking?
To prevent independent thought and keep people “happy” by avoiding conflict
What does Montag secretly take from the old woman’s house?
A Book
What internal conflict begins to grow in Montag?
Doubt about his job and the value of burning books
What do Clarisse’s observations about nature (rain, leaves, etc.) symbolize?
Awareness and a deeper connection to life that society has lost