Murderbot 101
What kind of unit is Murderbot?
A Security Unit (SecUnit).
Who is the leader of the PreservationAux crew?
Dr. Ayda Mensah.
Who owns Murderbot at the start of the story?
The Company.
What happens to the other survey team on the planet?
They’re all killed.
“I could have become a mass murderer after I hacked my governor module, but then I realized I could access the entertainment channels.” What does this quote show about Murderbot?
Its humor and preference for avoidance over violence.
What system did Murderbot hack?
Its governor module.
Which crew member is a lawyer?
Dr. Pin-Lee.
What does the Company provide to the survey teams?
Contracts, equipment, and SecUnits.
What does Murderbot do when the team is under attack?
Protects them, often risking itself.
What theme is explored through Murderbot’s independence?
Autonomy and self-determination.
What’s Murderbot’s favorite activity?
Watching serials (soap operas).
Which crew member is skeptical of Murderbot at first?
Gurathin.
What is the rival corporation responsible for sabotage?
GrayCris
What’s missing from the planetary survey data?
Key mapping and hazard information.
What does Dr. Mensah represent thematically?
Compassion and moral responsibility.
What emotion does Murderbot often feel when interacting with humans?
Anxiety or discomfort.
Which crew member studies biology?
Dr. Ratthi.
What does the Company care about most?
Profit and avoiding liability.
Who sabotaged the mission?
GrayCris Corporation.
How does the novella critique corporate systems?
By showing how they treat people (and bots) as property.
What is Murderbot’s ultimate goal by the end of the book?
To be free and independent — not owned or controlled.
How does Dr. Mensah show she trusts Murderbot?
She defends it to the Company and offers to buy its contract.
Why does the Company’s control system pose a danger to SecUnits?
The governor module can force them to obey even lethal commands.
What does Murderbot do at the end of the book?
Escapes and goes off on its own.
What does Murderbot’s journey symbolize?
The search for identity, freedom, and humanity.