Harrison Bergeron Review

Which statement best expresses the author's critique of this society?

• The government should encourage everyone to hide their differences in order to have a more peaceful society.

• Forcing uniformity on people doesn't result in equality, but rather causes conflict and unhappiness.

• Attempting to achieve complete equality will only result in widespread conflict.

• People don't realize how important individuality is until their differences are taken away.

How does Harrison's removal of his handicaps affect the story?

• Harrison inspires people to rebel against the government.

• Harrison briefly shows people what is possible without handicaps.

• Harrison's violent outburst makes the audience believe that handicaps are good.

• Harrison makes his parents proud that he stood up for what is right.

Answer explanation

Harrison's removal of his handicaps demonstrates his extraordinary abilities, briefly showcasing to others the potential of a life free from oppression, which is pivotal in illustrating the story's theme of individuality versus conformity.

How do the handicaps contribute to the story's theme?

• They show how being unique can be dangerous to yourself and the people around you.

• They emphasize how the most ordinary people are often the most valued in a society.

• They stress how the work towards achieving total equality won't be easy or pleasant.

• They illustrate how much must be done to make the most unique and talented individuals conform.

Answer explanation

The handicaps in the story illustrate the extreme measures taken to enforce conformity among unique individuals, highlighting the struggle against their natural talents and abilities in pursuit of enforced equality.

What does the dance with Harrison and the ballerina symbolize?

• freedom from limitations

• artistic creativity

• obedience to authority

• destruction of property

Answer explanation

The dance between Harrison and the ballerina symbolizes freedom from limitations, as it represents breaking away from societal constraints and expressing individuality through art and movement.

What societal critique does Kurt Vonnegut convey in "Harrison Bergeron"?

• The dangers of extreme equality and loss of individuality.

• The benefits of a completely equal society.

• The importance of government control over personal abilities.

• The need for technological advancement to ensure equality.

Answer explanation

Kurt Vonnegut critiques the dangers of extreme equality in "Harrison Bergeron" by illustrating how enforced uniformity leads to the loss of individuality, as seen through characters who are handicapped to suppress their talents.

Why are people reluctant to join Harrison and remove their handicaps?

• Fear of punishment from the government

• Lack of awareness about their potential

• Contentment with their current state

• Belief in the fairness of the system

Answer explanation

People are reluctant to join Harrison due to fear of punishment from the government, which enforces strict handicaps to maintain control and suppress individuality. This fear outweighs their desire for freedom.

Why did the author include the detailed dance scene with the ballerina?

• To highlight the grace and beauty of the ballerina.

• To provide a contrast to the main storyline.

• To emphasize the cultural significance of ballet.

• To introduce a new character in the story.

Answer explanation

The author likely included the detailed dance scene to highlight the grace and beauty of the ballerina, enhancing the aesthetic experience and emotional impact of the narrative.

Tags

CCSS.RI.7.6

CCSS.RI.7.9

CCSS.RI.8.6

CCSS.RI.8.9

CCSS.RL.8.6

Why did Kurt Vonnegut write "Harrison Bergeron"?

• To critique the concept of enforced equality

• To support the idea of absolute equality

• To promote government control over individuality

• To highlight the benefits of a classless society

Answer explanation

Kurt Vonnegut wrote "Harrison Bergeron" to critique the concept of enforced equality, highlighting the absurdity of extreme measures taken to achieve uniformity, which can stifle individuality and creativity in society.

In "Harrison Bergeron," why does George reject Hazel's suggestion to lighten his handicap bag?

• If he gets caught he would be fined two thousand dollars.

• If he gets caught he would have to spend two years in jail.

• He thinks it's wrong to cheat the law.

• He thinks that pretty soon we'd be right back to the dark ages if people got away with it.

• All of the above.

Answer explanation

George rejects Hazel's suggestion because he believes that if he gets caught, he would face severe penalties, and he thinks it's wrong to cheat the law. He fears that allowing such actions could lead society back to the dark ages.

Tags

CCSS.RL.9-10.1

CCSS.RL.9-10.3

George and Hazel believe that handicaps --?

• keep society from falling apart.

• challenge citizens to work harder.

• make competitions more interesting.

• prevent people from hurting each other.

Answer explanation

George and Hazel believe that handicaps are essential for maintaining order and stability in society, preventing chaos and ensuring that everyone can coexist without conflict.

Tags

CCSS.RL.6.1

CCSS.RL.6.2