Characters & Relationships
This is how Vonnegut portrays George and Hazel’s relationship.
affectionate but unquestioning of government control
When and where does the story take place?
The year 2081 in the US.
How does Harrison Bergeron resist the government's control?
He removes his handicaps, declares himself emperor.
What does the ballerina’s description reveal about her character?
She is exceptionally beautiful and talented but forced to wear extreme handicaps.
Why do the H-G men force Harrison to wear extreme handicaps?
To suppress his intelligence, strength, and appearance in order to enforce "equality."
How does he try to inspire others to break free?
By encouraging the ballerina to dance her best, and forcing musicians to play at theirs.
What important thoughts of George get interrupted by the handicap device (2 thoughts)
His thoughts about Harrison and the handicaps get interrupted.
Where do we see George experiencing fear?
George experiences fear when he refuses to decrease the weight of his handicap bags, out of fear that he would have to pay heavy fines and go to prison.
How does the government respond to Harrison’s act of defiance?
Diana Moon Glampers kills him immediately, demonstrating the state's intolerance for rebellion.
What warning does the story give about media influence?
Television is used to pacify the public and prevent them from questioning authority.
How does Hazel react to Harrison’s death on television?
Hazel is upset and cries, but fails to remember why.
What in the story reveals that George and Hazel believe that their society is a utopia?
George embraces the handicaps because he believes that this prevents them from going back to the dark ages.
What does Harrison and the ballerina’s dance symbolize?
The beauty of unrestrained human potential and freedom.
How does the story caution against the misuse of technology?
Technology is used to suppress thought and enforce conformity rather than to empower people.
Why does the ballerina gravitate towards Harrison?
Because she, like Harrison, is forced to minimize herself and her talents for the comfort of others.
What does Diana Moon Glampers represent in the story?
Oppressive government authority that enforces equality through violence.
Why is Harrison’s resistance ultimately unsuccessful?
Society has been dehumanized to the point where people cannot think critically or act against oppression.
Based on the conversation between George and Hazel, what needs to happen first in order for compliance and conformity to exist?
Fear (of punishment)