English Studies 12 - Inquiry Project
How do the varying aspects of one’s identity influence their actions, perception of the world, and the way others perceive them?
Fahrenheit 451
Fahrenheit 451 is an American dystopian novel published in 1953 by Ray Bradbury. This book describes an American oppressive society where books have been outlawed and 'firemen' burn any that are found. Society attempts to abolish contradiction, complexity, and confusion, to make sure there is uncomplicated ‘happiness’ for all citizens.
Guy and Identity
How do aspects for his identity influence his actions?
Guy Montage, the main character, challenges the ideas and concepts he learns throughout his life. After meeting a girl with a unique perspective named Clarisse, his curious and open nature led him to pursue an answer, and discover more about the world before books were abolished. He feels conflicted about the things he was taught his whole life, and the opinions of his wife, Mildred, and wants to discover more about life. This eventually leads to his collaboration with Faber and escape.
How does Guy's identity affect his perception of the world?
Unlike most other people in his community, he starts to be skeptical of the world around him and starts to develop an interest in books and life before firemen burned books. This leads him to become annoyed with others in his community who have been so brainwashed to the point where they don't seem to ask any questions while complying with the rules and doing mindless activities such as driving fast and yelling at the television. Because of his different viewpoint, he felt quite alone in the community. It also led him to have the utmost respect for people such as Faber and Clarisse for sharing their perspectives.
How does this influence they way he is perceived by others?
Guy Montage is perceived as a betrayer and as someone trying to disturb peace within the community by most people in the town. He is disliked by firefighters after being caught with a book. Despite this, Faber and the people he meets in the woods who have recognized the corrupt society enjoy his presence and spend time with him because of their shared perspective in their isolating society.