Plot & Events
What year does the story take place in?
The story takes place in the year 2081.
Who are Harrison’s parents?
George and Hazel Bergeron.
What is the government’s main goal in this society?
To make everyone completely equal.
What does Harrison represent in the story?
Individual freedom and human potential.
What is one major theme of the story?
The danger of extreme equality.
Why is Harrison taken away from his parents?
He is considered too intelligent and dangerous by the government.
What mental handicap does George have?
A device that makes loud noises to interrupt his thoughts.
How does the government prevent people from being better than others?
By using physical and mental handicaps.
Why is the story considered ironic?
Equality causes suffering instead of fairness.
What does the story suggest about government power?
Too much control can destroy individuality.
What interrupts the television program George and Hazel are watching?
A news bulletin announces that Harrison has escaped from jail.
How would Hazel’s intelligence best be described?
She has average intelligence and forgets things quickly.
Why are talented people considered dangerous?
They threaten the idea of forced equality.
How is exaggeration used in the story?
Harrison’s strength and size are described as extreme.
What message does the author send about conformity?
Blind conformity can be harmful.
What does Harrison do when he appears on television?
He removes his handicaps and declares himself emperor.
Who enforces the equality laws in society?
The Handicapper General.
How does the setting affect the mood of the story?
It creates a tense and controlled atmosphere.
What does the television symbolize?
Government control over information.
How does the story warn readers about society’s future?
It shows what can happen when freedom is taken away.
How does Harrison’s rebellion end?
Diana Moon Glampers kills him with a shotgun.
What role does the ballerina play during Harrison’s rebellion?
She becomes his empress and dances with him.
What does the society value more than freedom?
Sameness and obedience.
Why does Vonnegut use a futuristic setting?
To warn readers about real-world issues.
What lesson should readers learn from Harrison’s fate?
Standing up against injustice can be dangerous but meaningful.