research paper on fahrenheit 451

Fahrenheit 451 Research Paper Topics

In the realm of dystopian literature, Fahrenheit 451 research paper topics offer a multitude of avenues for exploration. Ray Bradbury’s masterwork, replete with compelling themes and intricate literary techniques, provides students a challenging yet rewarding academic landscape. This page is designed to facilitate the process of topic selection, offering an extensive list of ideas categorized into ten distinct segments. Beyond mere topic suggestions, the content underscores the significance of methodical topic choice, coupled with practical guidance on penning an impactful research paper. Backed by iResearchNet’s top-tier writing services, students can confidently navigate the complexities of Bradbury’s text, ensuring a comprehensive and insightful analysis.

100 Fahrenheit 451 Research Paper Topics

Fahrenheit 451 , authored by Ray Bradbury, stands as a paragon in the realm of dystopian fiction. Its multifaceted themes, ranging from censorship to the power of knowledge, offer an expansive ground for research and exploration. The following categories and corresponding Fahrenheit 451 research paper topics serve as a guide for students endeavoring to delve into the intricate layers of the novel.

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1. Censorship and Control:

• The motifs of burning and fire as symbols of censorship.
• Historical instances of book burnings and their parallels in Fahrenheit 451 .
• The role of government in controlling information and manipulating public perception.
• The dangers of self-censorship: A comparative study with real-world instances.
• The societal consequences of suppressing dissenting voices.
• Mechanisms of control: From the ‘Hound’ to the firefighters.
• How censorship curtails personal freedom and intellectual growth.
• The cyclical nature of censorship: Drawing parallels with contemporary society.
• Is censorship ever justifiable? Evaluating Montag’s journey.
• Fahrenheit 451 as a cautionary tale for future generations.

2. The Power and Role of Knowledge:

• The contrasting characters of Faber and Beatty: Two views on knowledge.
• Montag’s awakening: The realization of suppressed knowledge.
• Literature as a vessel for critical thinking and self-awareness.
• The transformational power of books in a dystopian world.
• Knowledge vs. information: The emptiness of TV parlors.
• Bradbury’s critique of shallow, disconnected information consumption.
• The resistance movement and their commitment to preserving knowledge.
• The dichotomy between ignorance and enlightenment.
• The inherent danger of knowledge in a society built on censorship.
• The role of education in fostering or suppressing critical thought.

3. Individuality and Conformity:

• Montag’s journey from conformity to rebellion.
• Mildred’s life: The epitome of societal conformity.
• The cost of individuality in a conformist society.
• The allure and consequences of blind conformity.
• Clarisse’s character as a beacon of individuality and hope.
• The perils of seeking solace in collective identity.
• Societal mechanisms that deter deviation and promote uniformity.
• Bradbury’s perspective on the diminishing value of individual thought.
• The symbiotic relationship between censorship and conformity.
• Individual agency and the courage to defy societal norms.

4. Technology and Media Consumption:

• The seashell radios: Tools of distraction and societal control.
• The menacing presence of the Mechanical Hound.
• The role of “parlor walls” in shaping public opinion.
• Bradbury’s cautionary stance on unbridled technological advancement.
• The isolating effects of technology on human connections.
• Montag’s aversion to technological marvels: A path to redemption.
• Dystopia or reality? Drawing parallels with modern media consumption.
• The allure of virtual realities at the cost of authentic human experiences.
• Technology as a double-edged sword: Opportunities vs. pitfalls.
• Assessing Bradbury’s predictions: How accurate was his foresight?

5. The Nature of Human Relationships:

• Montag and Mildred: A marriage devoid of genuine connection.
• Clarisse’s influence: Awakening Montag’s longing for true human interaction.
• The superficiality of friendships in Bradbury’s dystopia.
• The significance of Granger’s group in rekindling human bonds.
• The impact of technology and censorship on genuine human interactions.
• Mildred’s friends and their lack of emotional depth.
• Bradbury’s critique of relationships in a consumerist society.
• The role of empathy and genuine understanding in human connections.
• The potential for redemption through forging real relationships.
• Analyzing the contrasting relationships Montag forms throughout the novel.

6. The Role of Memory and the Past:

• Granger’s discourse on the importance of remembering.
• The phoenix symbol: Destruction, rebirth, and the power of memory.
• Montag’s internal struggle with forgotten memories.
• The collective societal amnesia and its implications.
• The importance of history in shaping the future.
• Bradbury’s take on the dangers of erasing the past.
• Memory as an act of resistance against oppressive regimes.
• The challenges and merits of passing down memories.
• How characters anchor themselves through memories.
• The past as both a burden and a beacon of hope.

7. Themes of Hope and Redemption:

• The conclusion of Fahrenheit 451 : A new beginning.
• Montag’s evolution: A tale of hope and personal redemption.
• The enduring spirit of literature and knowledge.
• Bradbury’s underlying optimism amidst the dystopian backdrop.
• The river’s symbolism as a path to rejuvenation and rebirth.
• The role of Granger’s group in preserving hope for future generations.
• The possibility of societal redemption post-destruction.
• Literature as a vessel for conveying hope.
• Bradbury’s message for future generations: The importance of staying vigilant.
• Assessing the hopeful undertones in the narrative.

8. The Role of Nature:

• The stark contrasts between the natural world and the city.
• Clarisse’s fondness for nature and its influence on Montag.
• The healing powers of the natural environment.
• Nature as a sanctuary from technological domination.
• Bradbury’s views on humanity’s disconnection from nature.
• The river’s journey: Symbolism of cleansing and rebirth.
• The role of the natural environment in Montag’s transformation.
• The consequences of humanity’s disregard for the natural world.
• Nature as a reflection of human emotions and turmoil.
• Reconnecting with nature: A pathway to salvation.

9. Analysis of Key Characters:

• Montag’s development: From a firefighter to a seeker of truth.
• Captain Beatty: The embodiment of censorship and control.
• Clarisse McClellan: The curious soul sparking change.
• Faber’s role: Guiding Montag’s intellectual awakening.
• Mildred Montag: A tragic portrayal of blind conformity.
• Granger and his band: The torchbearers of knowledge.
• The Mechanical Hound: A technological terror.
• The city residents: A reflection of societal apathy and ignorance.
• Bradbury’s portrayal of minor characters and their significance.
• A comparative analysis of protagonists and antagonists in the narrative.

10. Bradbury’s Writing Style and Techniques:

• The use of symbolism: Fire, the phoenix, and the Mechanical Hound.
• Bradbury’s distinctive narrative voice in Fahrenheit 451 .
• The use of metaphors and similes to enhance the narrative.
• The significance of Bradbury’s choice of title.
• The impact of the first-person narrative in immersing the reader.
• The role of descriptive passages in establishing the dystopian setting.
• Bradbury’s foresight: Blurring the lines between fiction and reality.
• Analyzing the pacing and structure of the narrative.
• Bradbury’s commentary on society through subtle literary techniques.
• The intertwining of hope and despair through Bradbury’s prose.

The literary universe of Fahrenheit 451 extends far beyond its pages, challenging readers to question, reflect, and engage in meaningful discourse. This comprehensive list, encapsulating various facets of the novel, endeavors to facilitate rigorous academic exploration. Whether delving into the thematic intricacies or critically examining Bradbury’s literary techniques, the plethora of Fahrenheit 451 research paper topics ensures a dynamic research journey, enriched further by the insights and perspectives it promises to unveil.

Exploring Fahrenheit 451

And the vast array of research paper topics it offers.

Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 stands as an emblematic work of dystopian fiction, a narrative characterized by a keen awareness of the societal pitfalls that emerge when conformity suppresses individuality, and when unbridled technological advancements overshadow the essence of humanity. Bradbury, through his evocative prose and insightful observations, crafts a world where books—repositories of wisdom, knowledge, and human experience—are feared, leading to their brutal extermination through fire. In the very essence of this fiery destruction lies the heart of the novel: a blazing critique of a society in peril, blinded by its own advancements and stripped of its quintessential human core.

Set in a futuristic American city, the narrative trails the life of Guy Montag, a firefighter by profession. Yet, the role of firefighters in this stark realm is chillingly reversed—they ignite flames rather than quench them, with their sole mission being to locate and incinerate books. Books, in Bradbury’s dystopia, are considered hazardous, capable of inducing discontent, turmoil, and dissent. They are the relics of a bygone era, replaced by mind-numbing entertainment and superficial social interactions. However, Montag’s unexpected encounter with a spirited young woman named Clarisse sets him on a transformative journey, making him question the very fabric of his existence and the society he inhabits.

Several overarching themes pervade the narrative, providing students and researchers a rich tapestry to dissect and explore. The omnipresent motif of censorship, manifesting through the eradication of books and the suppression of dissenting voices, stands as a stark warning against the dangers of curbing intellectual freedom. By stifling creativity, individual thought, and critical reasoning, the society in Fahrenheit 451 spirals into a state of apathy and obliviousness. The fire, paradoxically a symbol of both destruction and purification, serves as a consistent reminder of the society’s relentless desire to annihilate the past and its potent truths.

Furthermore, the novel accentuates the perils of unchecked technological progress. In Bradbury’s envisioned future, technology not only dominates but also isolates. The “parlor walls,” large TV screens that encompass entire room walls, spew fragmented, mindless content, ensnaring its viewers in a trance of passivity. The seashell radios plug people into a constant stream of noise, detaching them from the real world, from nature, and most significantly, from genuine human interactions. This profound sense of alienation and loneliness, juxtaposed with the society’s technological advancements, underscores Bradbury’s cautionary message about the loss of deep, meaningful connections.

Bradbury’s magnum opus also delves deep into the realm of human relationships, presenting a bleak portrayal of connections forged in an emotionally barren landscape. Montag’s own relationship with his wife, Mildred, encapsulates this void—a marriage devoid of genuine emotion, intimacy, and understanding. The superficiality of human interactions, coupled with the omnipresence of technology, amplifies the novel’s critique of a society that has lost its way.

Yet, amidst the bleakness, Fahrenheit 451 also reverberates with themes of hope, rebirth, and redemption. The river, with its flowing waters, emerges as a symbol of renewal, guiding Montag on his quest for truth and self-realization. The band of exiles Montag encounters towards the end, committed to preserving the essence of literature and knowledge, embody the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

In conclusion, Fahrenheit 451 is not just a novel—it’s a clarion call, urging readers to remain vigilant, to question, to think, and most importantly, to cherish the invaluable treasures that books offer. For students and researchers, the depth and breadth of Fahrenheit 451 research paper topics are expansive, promising a multifaceted exploration of a literary masterpiece that remains eerily relevant even today. Through Bradbury’s poignant narrative, one is reminded of the timeless power of literature—to illuminate, to challenge, and to inspire.

How to Choose Fahrenheit 451 Research Paper Topics

When approaching Ray Bradbury’s iconic dystopian novel, Fahrenheit 451 , for academic exploration, the selection of a precise and engaging research topic is paramount. This choice can determine the depth of your analysis, the ease of your research, and the relevance of your conclusions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select the most fitting topic for your paper.

• Familiarize Yourself with the Text : Before you delve into specific Fahrenheit 451 research paper topics, ensure that you have thoroughly read and understood Fahrenheit 451 . Grasping the nuances of characters, plot developments, and thematic underpinnings can guide your topic selection.
• Understand the Assignment Guidelines : It’s essential to comprehend the requirements set by your professor or academic institution. Are there any specific themes or angles you’re asked to explore? Understanding the scope can narrow down your choices.
• Determine Your Interest : Passion drives rigorous research. Choose a topic that genuinely intrigues you. Whether it’s the symbolism of fire, the societal role of the firemen, or Montag’s transformative journey, an authentic interest can fuel your exploration.
• Consider the Relevance : While Fahrenheit 451 was published over half a century ago, its themes of censorship, technological dominance, and societal conformity remain eerily relevant today. A topic that draws parallels between Bradbury’s dystopia and contemporary society can make your paper particularly poignant.
• Explore Different Literary Techniques : Bradbury’s rich narrative is laden with symbolism, metaphors, and allegories. Centering your research on a specific literary device can offer a focused and detailed analysis.
• Consult Secondary Sources : Reviews, critiques, and scholarly articles on Fahrenheit 451 can provide insight into popular areas of research and undiscovered niches that you might want to explore.
• Evaluate the Scope : Some Fahrenheit 451 research paper topics might be too broad, making it challenging to offer a detailed analysis within the constraints of a research paper. Conversely, exceedingly narrow topics might lack sufficient content for a comprehensive paper. Aim for a balanced scope.
• Consider Interdisciplinary Approaches : Don’t limit yourself to a purely literary analysis. Fahrenheit 451 offers avenues for exploration through sociological, psychological, and philosophical lenses. For instance, examining the psychological transformation of Montag or the sociological implications of a book-less society can add depth to your paper.
• Engage in Brainstorming Sessions : Discussing potential Fahrenheit 451 research paper topics with peers, mentors, or professors can provide fresh perspectives and refine your choices.
• Stay Updated : As contemporary society continues to evolve, new developments can provide fresh angles for examining Fahrenheit 451 . Whether it’s the rise of AI, debates over internet censorship, or the role of modern technology in shaping human interactions, staying abreast of current events can lend your research topic an updated edge.

Selecting the right research topic for Fahrenheit 451 can set the stage for a profound exploration of Bradbury’s magnum opus. While the plethora of themes and angles within the novel might seem overwhelming, following the steps outlined above can streamline your selection process. Ultimately, the goal is to choose a topic that resonates, challenges, and inspires you to dive deep into the fiery, tumultuous world of Fahrenheit 451 .

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Amis, K. (1960). New maps of hell . New York: Ballantine.

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Bradbury, R. (1953). Fahrenheit 451 . New York: Ballantine. 2001.

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McGiveron, R. O. (2013b). From “Government control of this and that” to “The whole culture’s shot through”: Behavior, blame, and the Bomb in The Martian Chronicles and Fahrenheit 451 . In R. O. McGiveron (Ed.), Critical Insights: Fahrenheit 451 (pp. 62–74). Ispwich, MA: Salem.

McGiveron, R. O. (2017). From “Halloween was outlawed and Christmas was banned!” to “You can stay happy all the time”: Shifting impetuses for book-burning from “The Exiles”’ and “Usher II” to Fahrenheit 451 . In R. O. McGiveron (Ed.), Critical Insights: Ray Bradbury . Critical Insights Series (pp. 46–59). Ispwich, MA: Salem.

McGiveron, R. O. (2013a). On Fahrenheit 451 . In R. O. McGiveron (Ed.), Critical Insights: Fahrenheit 451 . Critical Insights Series (pp. 3–16). Ispwich, MA: Salem.

McGiveron, R. O. (1996). What “carried the trick”? Mass exploitation and the decline of thought in Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 . Extrapolation, 37 (3), 245–256.

Mengeling, M. E. (1980). The machineries of joy and despair: Bradbury’s attitudes toward science and technology. In M. H. Greenberg & J. D. Olander (Eds.), Ray Bradbury . Writers of the 21st Century Series (pp. 83–109). New York: Taplinger.

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Reilly, R. (1971). The artistry of Ray Bradbury. Extrapolation, 13 (1), 64–74.

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• Fahrenheit 451

Ray Bradbury

• Literature Notes
• The Issue of Censorship and Fahrenheit 451
• Book Summary
• About Fahrenheit 451
• Character List
• Summary and Analysis
• Character Analysis
• Captain Beatty
• Clarisse McClellan
• Professor Faber
• Mildred Montag
• The Mechanical Hound
• Character Map
• Ray Bradbury Biography
• Critical Essays
• Dystopian Fiction and Fahrenheit 451
• Comparison of the Book and Film Versions of Fahrenheit 451
• Ray Bradbury's Fiction
• Full Glossary for Fahrenheit 451
• Essay Questions
• Practice Projects
• Cite this Literature Note

Critical Essays The Issue of Censorship and Fahrenheit 451

Bradbury ties personal freedom to the right of an individual having the freedom of expression when he utilizes the issue of censorship in  Fahrenheit 451 . The First Amendment to the United States Constitution reads:

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for redress of grievances.

The common reading of the First Amendment is that commitment to free speech is not the acceptance of only non-controversial expressions that enjoy general approval. To accept a commitment to the First Amendment means, in the words of Justice Holmes, "freedom for what we hate." As quoted in Students' Right to Read (NCTE, 1982), "Censorship leaves students with an inadequate and distorted picture of the ideals, values, and problems of their culture. Writers may often be the spokesmen of their culture, or they may stand to the side, attempting to describe and evaluate that culture. Yet, partly because of censorship or the fear of censorship, many writers are ignored or inadequately represented in the public schools, and many are represented in anthologies not by their best work but by their safest or least offensive work." What are the issues involved in censorship?

Imagine that a group wants to ban Fahrenheit 451 because Montag defies authority. For the sake of the argument, assume for a moment that you wish to "ban" Fahrenheit 451 from the library shelves. To do so, you must do a number of things. First, you must establish why defying authority is wrong. What are its consequences? What are the probable effects on youth to see flagrant disregard of authority? (In regard to these questions, you may want to read Plato's Apology to get a sense of how to argue the position.) Second, you must have some theory of psychology, either implied or directly stated. That is, you must establish how a reading of Fahrenheit 451 would inspire a student to flagrantly disregard authority. Why is reading bad for a student? How can it be bad? Next, you must establish how a student who reads Fahrenheit 451 will read the book and extract from it a message that says "Defy Authority Whenever Possible" and then act on this message.

You must then reconcile whatever argument you construct with the responsibilities that accompany accepting the rights of the First Amendment. Perhaps you should consider and think about the issues of free speech and fundamental rights that you may not have considered before. Indeed, you may conclude that you can't claim your own right to expression if you have the right to suppress others rights to express themselves.

In looking at censorship in Fahrenheit 451 , Bradbury sends a very direct message showing readers what can happen if they allow the government to take total control of what they do (or do not) read, watch, and discuss. For example, the government in Fahrenheit 451 has taken control and demanded that books be given the harshest measure of censorship — systematic destruction by burning.

Although the books and people have fallen victims to censorship in Fahrenheit 451 , luckily, some citizens remain who are willing to sacrifice their lives to ensure that books remain alive. As Faber notes in a conversation with Montag, "It's not books you need, it's some of the things that once were in books." Faber then continues this conversation with Montag pointing out that people need "the right to carry out actions based on what we learn [from books]. . . ."

Because the government has censored so much in its society, the citizens in Fahrenheit 451 have no idea about what is truly happening in their world. A direct result of their limited knowledge is that their entire city is destroyed because propaganda wouldn't allow individuals to see that their destruction was imminent.

Previous Dystopian Fiction and Fahrenheit 451

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ENG 112: Fahrenheit 451

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Fahrenheit 451 Summary, Analysis, and Essay Example

Ray Bradbury’s classic 1953 book Fahrenheit 451 is one of the most renowned novels of the 20th century. It stands alongside such classics as Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World and George Orwell’s 1984. This Fahrenheit 451 analysis takes a look at its author, characters, themes, quotes, and movie adaptation.

Ray Bradbury Bio

Ray Douglas Bradbury was born in Waukegan, Illinois, on August 22, 1920. His parents, Esther Bradbury and Leonard Spaulding Bradbury gave Ray his middle name in honor of the actor Douglas Fairbanks. Ray’s aunt would often read to him during his childhood. This influence can be seen in his works, where he highlights major themes of censorship, the importance of books, and accepting the history that can no longer be changed.

Ray Bradbury has loved reading since he was a young man. He often visited the library and read the works of Jules Verne, Edgar Alan Poe, and H. G. Wells. Ray published his first story titled Hollerbochen’s Dilemma when he was only 18 years old. While not popular with readers, it showcased the young writer’s potential.

Bradbury continued to hone his skills, and they paid off nearly two decades later. Some of the greatest Ray Bradbury books include Fahrenheit 451, Dandelion Wine, and The Illustrated Man. His first collection of short sci-fi stories dubbed The Martian Chronicles was released in 1950. To this day, Fahrenheit 451 remains one of his most well-known works.

In the mid-1980s, he was a host and writer for The Ray Bradbury Theater. This was an anthology series that ran on HBO and the First Choice Superchannel in Canada. Bradbury personally wrote for all 65 episodes. They were based on his own short stories and novels.

Fahrenheit 451: Analysis

Ray Bradbury Fahrenheit 451 continues to fascinate readers with its timeless themes of freedom, censorship, dystopian society, and wilful ignorance years after its release. Bradbury paints a portrait of a hedonistic society that doesn’t care about its lifestyle and doesn’t want change. 

Fahrenheit 451 analysis closely centers around the main character torn between his professional loyalties and growing discontent with the status quo. It’s a timeless classic that shows how arrogance always leads to downfall.

What Is the Main Idea of Fahrenheit 451?

Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 was strongly influenced by the McCarthy trials. The book is a condemnation of censorship and the persecution of people. It’s a tale of a man’s desire for individuality in a strongly conformist and ignorant society. The story sets in the future, where the American public has become an empty shell.

In this timeline, firemen start fires instead of putting them out. Fahrenheit 451 follows one of the operatives named Guy Montag. He goes on a personal journey from enjoying the book burnings to doubting his actions and wanting nothing to do with them. The majority of his peers have become disconnected from reality.

They are constantly bombarded by sounds and sights produced by the media. This is so persistent that people have no time to think and process what is being transmitted. Montag realizes that he has to desperately try to save what knowledge remains in unburned books. The story is a chilling tale with a dash of hope for the future.

Themes in Fahrenheit 451

Let’s begin our Fahrenheit 451 analysis with the themes. 

• As with all great dystopian novels, Ray Bradbury’s book shows one of the worst outcomes for humanity. Like his previous works, Fahrenheit 451 themes concern the dangers of technological progress. The societal problems faced by the books’ characters stem from the oversaturation of media. 
• The media of Fahrenheit 451 put an emphasis on stimulating the senses with programs that lack real depth. Oppressive society has become totally enthralled by immediate gratification. They lost any interest in books and critical thinking. In a way, technology destroyed the humanity of humans. Yet, it’s not the only dangerous technology.
• One of Fahrenheit 451 themes is the use of censorship to control the masses. Without any books around, governments and media companies found a way to control all information. This causes people to be constantly hooked on the barrage of media. Such things are still done by dictatorships that censor or outlaw books.

This all comes crashing down in the book’s climax. The only reason for the main character’s survival is his voluntary self-exile. Even without the happy ending, Bradbury gives hope that society may still be rebuilt.

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What Are 3 Conflicts in Fahrenheit 451?

There are several major conflicts In the Fahrenheit 451 book.  

• A man versus self - the dilemma Guy Montag faces. He is torn between his past identity and the need to obtain knowledge. 
• Conflicts with others: captain Beatty and his wife, Mildred. 
• Coming to clash with modern society and government. The protagonist doesn’t feel comfortable with any of these factions by the end.

What Is the Main Problem in Fahrenheit 451?

The main conflict of Ray Bradbury Fahrenheit 451 stems from the fact that society has become completely dependent on mass media. As a result, it’s no longer interested in the world’s problems. Free thought is forbidden, and literature is destroyed on-site. The overindulgence in technology distracts the population from an impending threat. Guy Montag finds himself to be one of the few people to escape its destructive nature.

There are several Fahrenheit 451 characters essential to the story. 

• Its protagonist Guy Montag is a professional in burning books. Instead of putting out fires, he sets them. All of this is to destroy the unwanted knowledge contained in books. His point of view takes readers into the book’s world.
• Guy Montag is married to Mildred . The protagonist still loves her but finds himself repulsed by her lack of personality. Mildred spends most of the novel glued to a TV screen or listening to the radio. She also enjoys other things that don’t require mental effort or thought.
• Captain Beatty is Guy Montag’s chief and one of the book’s antagonists. Ironically, he’s one of the most educated and well-read Fahrenheit 451 characters. But he uses this knowledge to keep people ignorant and burn books. 
• Clarise McCellan is a teenage girl that lives near Guy and Mildred. Unlike her peers, she’s not yet destroyed by society. In Ray Bradbury Fahrenheit 451, she still has her honesty, curiosity, and courage. Interestingly enough, the character analysis of Jem Finch can be used to understand Clarise’s character better. Hire your personal essay writer at our write my dissertation service .
• Professor Faber is a former English professor who witnessed the decline. Unlike Beatty, he despises society and believes in independent thought. But, unlike the chief, he doesn’t use his knowledge. Instead, he wants to hide away from society.

What Are the Symbols in Fahrenheit 451?

There are several symbols that appear heavily throughout the story. The first is fire . It’s the most evident symbol in the Fahrenheit 451 book. The book’s title refers to the temperature at which the book paper catches fire. Fire is heavily used to describe knowledge, rebirth, and destruction. The element is mostly used as a force of devastation throughout the novel.

Another prominent symbol is that of the salamander . This animal is used as a symbol for firemen in Fahrenheit 451. It’s displayed on their patches and on the fire hoses used to spew fire. Firetrucks are called the Salamander in the novel. The phoenix is displayed on the firemen’s uniforms and symbolizes the cycle of death and rebirth.

Ray Bradbury also uses seashell radio prominently in the story. This is a small radio device that symbolizes the control the media and government have over society. Almost everybody wears them to get a constant flow of information into their mind. Guy’s wife Mildred seems to be listening to seashell radio all the time.

Mirrors are another important part of the novel. They are used to represent seeing your true self and self-awareness. Montag describes Clarisse’s face as being like a mirror. This indicates that Montag notices a part of himself in her.

Motifs in Fahrenheit 451

Fahrenheit 451 analysis reveals several motifs in the novel. Religion appears a lot in Fahrenheit 451. The first book Montag saves from burning ends up being a copy of the Bible. He later discusses the lack of religion and its significance with professor Faber. Guy desperately seeks someone who can explain the content of the book as he feels unable to understand it.

Paradoxes are another important part of Fahrenheit 451. Bradbury has several paradoxical statements in the novel. Primarily they consider the Mechanical Hound and Mildred. For example, Guy believes the room with his wife to be empty at the beginning of the story. This emptiness stems from her being mentally lost in the sea of information.

Ray Bradbury uses nature as a counterpart to technology . It’s used to represent the change in norms the protagonist became used to. Nature also highlights the destructive tendencies of society. For example, modern society made animals symbols of death and darkness. During his conversations with Clarisse, they often referred to nature. Montag even thinks of her to be a part of nature when he first meets her.

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Why Was Fahrenheit 451 Banned?

So, why was Fahrenheit 451 banned several times? It is the only one of Ray Bradbury's books that suffered that much. This was motivated by a desire to censor its graphic content. Ironically, a story about censorship and government overreach has itself been a subject of these things.

Fahrenheit 451 Summary

Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 book is set in a dystopian future that weaponizes book burning to keep people barred from any knowledge. The novel follows one of the professional book incinerators named Guy Montag. In the beginning, he seems content with his work. But his attitude toward happiness and work soon starts to change.

First, he starts to have daily conversations with his neighbor Clarisse McClellan. She asks him many serious questions instead of spewing pleasantries. The second is when Montag steals his first book from an old woman's house during one of the raids. His firemen force was ordered to destroy the house of an old book hoarder. Instead of leaving the building, the old woman refuses to live in this society, and she sets herself on fire.

Ather these events, Montag questions his beliefs and himself more and more. Montag decides to steal and save more books from incineration. Montag makes an effort and tries to introduce his wife to reading, but she sees no point in it. Montag later contacts a retired literature professor Faber to learn more about books.

He’s first terrified of Montag but agrees to help after Guy starts ripping a book apart. Montag is given a phone device to offer him guidance. Montag’s attempt at reading a book during one of his wife’s TV-watching parties proves disastrous. He’s soon reported to the firemen by Mildred and is ordered to burn his own house down.

Guy does as told, but captain Beatty finds the earpiece and threatens to kill Fabian. This situation forces Montag to kill the chief. He then goes fleeing from the city while being chased by terrifying mechanical killer dogs. Montag escapes and joins a community of former intellectuals. They are aware of the coming war and plan to hide until it ends.

Fahrenheit 451 book ends with the total destruction of the city. But the community’s leader Granger believes it to be a good opportunity to rebuild society all over again. Much like the phoenix rising from its ashes after death, humanity can learn from its mistakes and rebuild anew.

Fahrenheit 451: Movie

In 2018, the novel got its second movie adaptation. It takes place after a second civil war. Much like in the original, in the 2018 Fahrenheit 451 movie, society is kept obedient by drugs and TV news. Everything is being controlled by the government. Television sets are placed in every home and street to keep the population under control. Montag and Captain Beatty are other firemen in Cleveland.

Their job is to hunt down book-collecting rebels. So, Montag burns any books he finds to erase the memory of such individuals. Captain Beatty seems to play both sides. Sometimes he’s helpful or harmful to Montag’s pursuit of knowledge. In the Fahrenheit 451 movie, the central government discovers that rebels want to record every book in existence into DNA.

This DNA will later spread around the world, thus ensuring that books never disappear. But, first, they have to get the DNA to Canada, where there’s no practice of book burning. In this adaptation, Montag’s neighbor Clarisse brings him to a revel hideout. He’s tasked with finding a suitable tracking device for a bird implanted with the DNA.

Montag’s plan is to use a tracking device utilized by the firemen. He succeeds but at the cost of his own life. This is a direct opposite of Montag’s and Beatty’s confrontation in the novel. In the Fahrenheit 451 movie, Guy sacrifices himself for the sake of knowledge.

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There are many Fahrenheit 451 quotes that are essential to the story. They help deliver Bradbury’s message about the dangers of passive entertainment. Yet, several Fahrenheit 451 quotes describe some of the novel’s most important arguments and ideas.

• “It was a pleasure to burn. It was a special pleasure to see things eaten, to see things blackened and changed.”

This opening sentence tells everything about Montag’s early disposition at the beginning of the story and how Montag feels. It also explains the main motive of the book. Humans prefer to cut corners and find an easy solution instead of investing in anything worth the effort.

• “Serenity, Montag. Peace, Montag. Take your fight outside. Better yet, into the incinerator.”

This line from firemen, that Beatty tells Montag perfectly summarizes his character. Why bother with anything complex if it can be destroyed and life kept simple? Bradbury uses this line to describe a slippery slope created by accepting an intolerance for ideas.

The novel has a lot of other quotes that you can use as an inspiration for your papers. For example, if you need to write a dissertation, you can view dissertation topics and use one of them. Also, in our blog you can see examples of coursework .

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Research, Writing and Ethics

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Whether you've come straight to RSU after high school or have returned to school after a long time in the real world, you’ve probably heard the same message from instructors and librarians: Don’t plagiarize. That seems pretty simple, but when you start researching and writing a paper, you might start to get confused. According to the Rogers State University student code, Plagiarism is defined as the representation of the words or ideas of another as one’s own, including:

•  Direct quotation without both attribution and indication that the material is being directly quoted; e.g. quotation marks
•  Paraphrase without attribution
•  Paraphrase with or without attribution where the wording of the original remains substantially intact and is represented as the author’s own
• Expression in one’s own words, but without attribution, of ideas, arguments, lines of reasoning, facts, processes, or other products of the intellect where such material is learned from the work of another and is not part of the general fund of common academic knowledge

In plain English, if you use another person’s words or ideas, you must give them credit for them. Plagiarism can be as simple as copying and pasting a few sentences from a website, as accidental as forgetting to cite an idea you paraphrased from another author or as extreme as buying a paper written by a ghost writer at a paper mill (itself probably plagiarized from other sources) and attaching your name to the top. However, all forms of plagiarism come with consequences.  Understanding what plagiarism is and how to avoid it is crucial to academic success.

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1. Define your topic

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Books — Fahrenheit 451

Essays on Fahrenheit 451

Hook examples for "fahrenheit 451" essays, anecdotal hook.

Picture a world where books are banned and burned. In Ray Bradbury's "Fahrenheit 451," this dystopian nightmare comes to life. Join us on a journey through the pages of this thought-provoking novel.

Question Hook

What happens to a society when it outlaws literature and intellectual freedom? Delve into the consequences and symbolism behind the burning of books in "Fahrenheit 451."

Quotation Hook

"There must be something in books, things we can't imagine, to make a woman stay in a burning house." — Ray Bradbury. Explore the power of literature and its role in challenging oppressive regimes.

Statistical or Factual Hook

Did you know that "Fahrenheit 451" is not just a novel, but also the temperature at which paper ignites? Uncover the symbolism and themes in this classic work of dystopian fiction.

Definition Hook

What does it mean to live in a "Fahrenheit 451" society? Examine the characteristics of this fictional dystopia and its parallels in the real world.

Rhetorical Question Hook

Is "Fahrenheit 451" a warning about the dangers of censorship, or does it offer a broader critique of a shallow and apathetic society? Analyze the layers of meaning in Bradbury's work.

Historical Hook

Step back into the 1950s and explore the historical context in which Ray Bradbury wrote "Fahrenheit 451." How did the Cold War and McCarthyism influence this dystopian vision?

Contrast Hook

Contrast the firemen in "Fahrenheit 451," who burn books, with traditional firefighters who save lives. Explore the irony and symbolism in the novel's portrayal of fire.

Narrative Hook

Follow the transformation of Guy Montag, a fireman turned book lover, as he navigates a world where knowledge is forbidden. Join him on his quest for truth and intellectual freedom.

Controversial Statement Hook

Prepare to dive into the controversy surrounding censorship and the suppression of dissenting voices, as depicted in "Fahrenheit 451," and its relevance in today's world.

Phoenix in Fahrenheit 451 Analysis

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Examples of Syntax in Fahrenheit 451

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"Fahrenheit 451": The Technology Impact

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Equality in Society in Fahrenheit 451

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October 19, 1953

Ray Bradbury

Dystopian Novel

Noel, Science Fiction, Political Fiction, Dystopian Fiction

Guy Montag, Clarisse McClellan, Beatty, Mildred Montag, Faber, Mrs. Ann Bowles, Mrs. Clara Phelps, Stoneman, Black, Granger

It has been adapted from Ray Bradbury's short story called "The Fireman".

Future, dystopian future, fire as the salvation and fire as the destroying power, the Phoenix as the bird that rises from the ashes, the technology. The symbolism of blood is always appearing through the novel as the power that deals with the repressed soul and the primal functions of the body. Finally, the Salamander is the symbol of immortality and rebirth, a passion to stand against the flame.

Fahrenheit 451 is the mirror of the human soul and is one of the greatest novels by Ray Bradbury because it is the powerful stance against censorship and the art of writing and reading that are both required to keep humanity safe and civilized.

The book is telling about some dystopian society where the specially-trained firemen burn the books to keep dangerous ideas and sad concepts under control. The novel revolves around Guy Montag, a fireman who goes against the book burning principles and passes transformation and sufferings because of his thoughts.

• The concept for the book has been inspired by the practice of Hitler related to burning books.
• One of the most popular misconceptions about the book title is the temperature at which the book paper can catch fire. Still, Fahrenheit 451 refers to the auto-ignition point when the paper starts to burn.
• The first version has been written on a rented typewriter in a library basement.
• Ray Bradbury has spent $9.80 on his rented typewriter, which means that the first story called "The Fireman" has been written in about 49 hours.
• Originally, Ray Bradbury was going to write about the dangers of television.
• According to Bradbury, his passion for reading did not ever keep him away from TV.
• Bradbury often said that Fahrenheit 451 is probably his only work that he could relate to science fiction.
• "He was not happy. He was not happy. He said the words to himself. He recognized this as the true state of affairs. He wore his happiness like a mask and the girl had run off across the lawn with the mask and there was no way of going to knock on her door and ask for it back.”
• “‘We need not to be let alone. We need to be really bothered once in a while. How long is it since you were really bothered? About something important, about something real?'”
• “There must be something in books, things we can’t imagine, to make a woman stay in a burning house; there must be something there. You don’t stay for nothing.'”
• “‘A book is a loaded gun in the house next door. Burn it. Take the shot from the weapon.'”
• “‘Books were only one type of receptacle where we stored a lot of things we were afraid we might forget. There is nothing magical in them, at all. The magic is only in what books say, how they stitched the patches of the universe together into one garment for us.'”

The book speaks about censorship and going against the system and technology. As Montag is united with the survivors who are striving to memorize and recite the books, it has an almost Biblical essence to it.

It can be used for any college essay paper that deals with dystopian society, politics, reading, education, and, most importantly, censorship. It is one of the most important books that tell us about taking our thoughts and ideas under control. You can use this analogy to talk about censorship online, college ideas that are overturned, your family life, and living in modern society.

Relevant topics

• A Modest Proposal
• A Rose For Emily
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• Between The World and Me
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“Fahrenheit 451” by Ray Bradbury Sample Essay

Introduction, fahrenheit 451: book review, analysis of fahrenheit 451’s main themes, works cited.

Part of the most captivating plots ever written fall in the fiction category. Novels have come to represent the very best of man’s imagination. Though most of their content is fictional, books’ storylines closely reflect the life people lead on the Earth. They seek to portray the good and the bad of the human race within various contexts as the setting permits. One of these books is “Fahrenheit 451”, a 1953 novel written by Ray Bradbury. This essay is an analysis of “Fahrenheit 451”, an example of science-fiction masterpiece. The themes, messages, characters, topics, and settings of the novel are explored in the below sections of the paper.

In Fahrenheit 451, a riveting story unfolds through the book’s storyline featuring a fictional future society, probably the American one, where reading is outlawed, and a ban on reading is imposed. Authorities affect the ban through burning books carried out by firemen.

When reading the novel, it is easy to agree that reading culture and freedom of expression of one’s thoughts through reading and writing is under threat of media such as television. Above all, the book reveals that people have become their worst enemies concerning reading and censorship and that the culture of ignorance and carelessness is taking its roots. There is an acute loss of intellectual thought in society.

Reading Fahrenheit 451’s provides a perfect revelation of a confused society at war with itself. Guy Montag comes home to find his wife overdosed and a new neighbor who reminds him of the unfulfilling life he leads. Despite participating in books burning, Montag is still not sure why he burns books, as evidenced by his stealing of one of the suicidal woman’s books.

Montag has a pile of books collected from the victims of book burning carried out by firemen. An argument with his wife about what to do with the stolen books opens Montag’s eyes, and he realizes his disgust for society. Montag realizes society’s pretense of happiness when he reads a poem from one of the stolen books, which makes one of his wife’s friends cry despite maintaining a “happy” life picture throughout her life (Bradbury 23).

The madness of the society’s onslaught on itself reaches the epitome when Beatty, Montag’s chief at work, orders him to burn his house. Probably from all the events, a dispute develops between Montag and the Beatty, the chief fireman. A war situation breaks out, and incineration of cities in the country takes place, a clear reflection of the permeation of confusion in society.

This section of the essay analyzes Fahrenheit 451’s themes. This kind of analysis gives the reader the perfect view of the explicit machinations of the state in promoting censorship and the flow of information. It is easy for a reader to see the blatant indictment of censorship as supported by the state. The firemen are on the government payroll, and their work is to impose a ban on books.

Through the book, the current situation in the world concerning censorship comes out. It is easy for any reader to find the current world situation concerning censorship and media gagging through a subtle and close reflection of what the book causes. But even more impressive is the precise reflection of the effects of television on society, especially concerning reading the literature.

One of the exciting insinuations in the book is the portrayal of people as their enemies. There is a blatant disregard of each other among human beings, the culture of alienation mainly fronted by the media.

In Fahrenheit 451, Mildred, Montag’s wife, is a clear representation of the current world, which is likely to turn into in the future thanks to the media. Mildred and her friends spend most of their time watching television walls in the “parlor,” intentionally ignoring the problems around them till the issues get out of control. There is the only preoccupation for them, which is the program schedule.

Clarisse helps Montag realize that what he is doing is wrong. Within that context, her character represents the voices of the reason that still exist in the chaotic world, the voices that still question the goings-on in the society despite the different obstacles that exist (Bradbury 47).

Fahrenheit 451 is every reader’s book with very infectious quoted and thought-provoking imagery, which explicitly puts the role entertainment, especially television, lack of concern for each other, and the casual attitude which has come to characterize the modern world.

The fact that the events occur in America, though fictional, is a stark reminder that repression is through book burning and is a serious event that can take place even in the most advanced society. Any reader will find it very interesting, primarily through the discovery that most of the hatred in the book comes from people themselves.

How does Fahrenheit 451 end? In summary, the novel’s finale is hopeful. The city has been destroyed by bombs, but the books continue to live in in the “book people”.

As shown in this essay, Fahrenheit 451 is an example of masterpiece in its genre. The novel is analyzed by the scholars in numerous research papers and book reviews. Fahrenheit 451 gives any reader an opportunity to experience firsthand a 1950’s prediction of the world in the 21st century.

People have become slaves to their television sets and the Internet, people don’t bother to ask the root cause of all the crises and armed conflicts that have become characteristic of the 21st century, there is an avid promotion of violence which children access through video games; the drug problems are spiraling out of control.

Reading the book provides a deeper understanding of Montag, the main character, and how he represents the average person in the world today. Books burning and city incineration is a symbolic representation of the problems that bedevil the world mainly through entertainment enslavement.

In a nutshell, the book acts as an eye-opener and helps in comparing the current society to the Montag’s society, where TV reigns as a supreme authority. Additionally, life is fast, and all people tend to think they are happy, while in the real sense, they are not. The real picture of what people are going through comes out through the suicide attempts. It is, therefore, easy to recommend Fahrenheit 451 as the book with the true reflection of the society people live in nowadays.

Bradbury, Ray. Fahrenheit 451 . New York: Simon & Schuster, 2011. Print.

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Bibliography

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Ray Bradbury Fahrenheit 451, Research Paper Example

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The Ray Bradbury novel Fahrenheit 451 is written in parables about the world without books along with saving the Book of Ecclesiastes.” This futuristic novel has a bit of mystery written by Ray Bradbury using Fahrenheit 51 as a backdrop into the ills of society. Fahrenheit 451 is set in a gray futuristic society about how the people rule the world with censorship, violence, socialdisorder, and prejudice. According to The American Library Association (2014), a middle school in California banned the novel “Fahrenheit 451” because it attacked religious and moral beliefs while teaching the children about foul language, alcohol, and questioning God. There are critics that believe the novel is an intimate look into the morality of Ray Bradbury and dark humor on display about current and future events in the worlds. The dominance of the radio and television, the censorship of books, the interest groups controlling legislation and the minorities being the prejudice barometer of the people. The novel “Fahrenheit 451” provides a pessimistic view of the world while displaying the worst in humanity that hunts down illegal transcripts. (Rotten Tomatoes 1). Fahrenheit 451′, by Ray Bradbury, is a novel which summons much thought about the way we live in comparison to this futuristic plot. Through the hero, Guy Montag, Bradbury makes a more extensive point about the dangers that a society controlled by prejudice groups. “The protagonist, Guy Montag, is a fireman who becomes drawn into the world of clandestine book-readers by a woman he meets. Eventually, he joins a group of outcasts trying to preserve literature” (Enotes 1). The journey that is embarked by Guy is a reflection of society when knowledge is controlled and the populations are not allowed to become freethinkers. The extraordinary novel has many hidden messages about the power of people, groups, and minorities.

In the novel, Bradbury creates a society where the government did not censor the population, but special interest groups oppress the masses. As the novel advances, we see Montag travel through an arrangement of fundamental progressions, seeing him change from an inconsiderate fireman to the leader ready to take on the responsibility of reserving Gods words. His new goal is to bring back freethinking as a part of society freedom of choice.

Ray Bradbury’s is one the most widespread globally recognized novels called Fahrenheit 451, which a brilliant piece of literary writing set in an apocalypse of twentieth-century futuristic society. “Published in 1953 during the Cold War and McCarthy Eras, the novel reflects Bradbury’s concerns about censorship and conformity during a period when free expression of ideas could lead to social and economic ostracization”(Telgen 138).Guy Montag is an protagonist and hero struggling with the burning of books and the control of interest groups that are destroying the world. This futuristic novel has a bit of mystery written by Ray Bradbury using Fahrenheit 51 as a backdrop into the ills of society. However, this novel has been misinterpreted because critics and novel community indicated this story was about government censorship. “The novel’s point of view is clearly against censorship. It depicts the general population as living in darkness, with huge television screens dominating their homes and radios constantly blaring in their ears. The authoritarian government has decreed that all writing is subversive” (Enotes 1).The characters quickly dispel the government overture such as Captain Beatty showing his support of censorship because he believe books to be contradictory, without facts to support assumptions and the world is better off without reading books. The character Faber clearly explains that it was the minorities and support groups that lead the charge to burn and censor books. Once again, reflecting that it was not the government that suppressed the people.

The story surrounds reflecting how the prejudices of an interest group can control what they see and what they hear.The author Ray Bradbury is telling story about the demise of the world not by the government. The world was being destroyed by controlling interest groups, television, and minorities that censored anything offensive to those groups. Ray Bradbury believes that television makes a habit of taking society licenses to slant the truth leaving out important parts of novel or TV series. The television industry is in the business of misconceptions, half-truths, and confusion (Johnson 2). The author sets a setting in the narrative as a storyteller commentary of society problems with an audience listening to every word. The special interest groups and the minorities have taken over the duties as suppressors because they now control what the world reads. The story has multiple meanings written into this fascinating futuristic plot. The firefighter Guy Montag daily duties do not include the brave and honorable duties of preventing and terminating fires. The new occupation is foreign to a firefighter that official job was the fireman’s responding to fires, however, in this futuristic world Guy Montag is fireman turned enforcer seeking to burn all books found in the citizens homes (Cliffnotes 1). The firefighter has been transformed from a firefighter to a fire starter burning all books they can find.

The traditional duties not long resemble respectable duties of a man in yellow with a bright red or orange protective helmet.The firestation is different from the traditional fire station as a place of safety with worry of confrontation. The war has changed the station into the new world consequences of accusations. The fire station has a hound that often sniffs out books spends it time barking at Guy because he senses the presence of books. (Telgen 139).The war has changed that firefighter that works for the state or county into enforcer that is responsible for burning books. The new world’sorder consists of censorship, prejudice;atmosphere has been censored after the war because the reading of books is what caused the catastrophic events that lead to censorship and burning of books . The firefighterof the past had the praiseworthy duty of protecting the community and the residents.

The Ray Bradbury novel Fahrenheit 51 is written in parables about the world without books along with saving the world by saving Book of Ecclesiastes.” Then write my research paper proving that the books is about censorship after the war, control of people, keeping people from freedom and without the word of God.Bradbury believes the younger generation does not understand his novel “Fahrenheit 51” because during a lecture at UCLA the students adamantly stated the novel was about the government censorship, which he disagreed then walk out of the lecture (Johnston 3).

In addition, the critics label the story line of the book about government control over people and what they see or hear. The dual character of Guy Montag as the protagonist, and rebel. In the real world, Guy is surrounded by television that is brain washing the worldincluding his wife Mildred. His wife and Guy are protagonist that are rebelling against the burning of book, censorship, literature is on the brink of extinction, and firemen start fires rather than put them out. His job is to destroy the most illegal of commodities, the printed book, along with the houses in which they are hidden. He never question his wife’s destructive behavior however, his life is without meaning without books. Guy blames the interest groups, minorities, and television programming of mindless shows that do not help the human race think for themselves. “What I’ve never understood is the way in which so many people claim to love the anti-censorship message of the story, but fail to notice it’s we TV watchers who are the villains.Society, by turning from the printed word towards television, brought about the dystopian world of book burning firemen” (Flock 3).

The intriguing foresight of this book by Ray Bradbury provides a glimpse in the world we live today. Ray Bradbury is way ahead of his time writing about society, as it may exist today with big corporation’s controlling interest groups, leaders using minorities to gain votes for control of the masses. Today’s world, in contrast is controlled by the special interest groups that represent the corporation with the most dollars. Fahrenheit 451 presents a new society dominated by the wishes and control of the interest groups, the television media, and censorship destroying the world. The grim new world does not support any form of individualism nor any resemblance of intellectual knowledge through reading. The media outlet along with daily dosages of television aimed at destroying the family unit. “The idea that television, or the internet for that matter, will someday turn mankind into oblivious automatons is short sighted… There’s nothing to gain by willfully ignoring an avenue for gaining knowledge based on unfounded bias” (Flock 2).

The hearth and the salamander is an interesting play on the firefighters is believe in the fireplace in the home as the hearth and the salamander as the symbol of the fire truck. This is parable used by Ray Bradbury to represent protecting the home with the comfort of a warm fire. In contrast, Guy Montag is at home with his life in shambles with his wife constantly on the verge of suicide, like the flames of the fire. This is a literary parable concerning the overall meaning of the theme that destroying the fabric of the home, you can destroy the world. The symbolism is fire as a constant in the life of the firefighters at home and at work while salamander is reminder of firemen has lost integrity (Sparknotes 2). The fire flames in the home present how Guy’s marriage is flaming out because of his wife’s constant watching of the television. The fire in the station represents the honor of the fireman with symbols representing the crest and responsibility of the fireman. The fire represents the burning of books as an act against society that the end is coming because the people control the future. The fire represents the burning desire for Guy to change his way of life questioning the burning of books, which goes against his conscious.

The Fahrenheit 451 is not trying to solve a problem, which pulls the reader into the story. The narrator provides a commentary that neither suggests a reason nor identifies any reason the books are banned in the future. The banned books are a symbol that the world is heading towards the end of the world because our faith in humanity no longer exist whiles the interest groups and minorities have become the new government. The entire world has been condensed to several groups such as the followers accepting the banned of books, the non-readers. The non-readers just exist neither for nor against reading of books but they have accept the banned. The second group has accepted the banned books, however, they hostile advocates against society. This group thatantagonize anyone against the banned books. The third group are the people like Guy Montag, who has accept the banned of books, however, his jobs requires him to burn books. The fourth group is the population that is against book burning, who actively work to reserve books.

The Fahrenheit 451 reflects the importance of books in today’s and future societies. In addition, the transitional story of Guy, who finds new life and meaning symbolic of being reborn. Bradbury utilizes the symbolism to describe the changes such as the 451 emblem to signify firemen unity and the river flow reflects the changes with Guy. The novel challenges the theory of decisions of the democratic interest group may not bring happiness to everyone in that society. The voice in the background of the story about people must be allowed to be individual, which makes a society great. The same differences the interest groups and minorities are suppressing are the same differences that make all civilizations great.In this excellent narrated novel Fahrenheit 451 brings to life, the very things that we take for granted: freedomto choice.

The resemblance to the real world today is contrasted with the story line because we are immersed in television and radio to bring the news. The Internet and social networks bring us the news in real time. Not much difference than the futuristic world of Guy. The author Ray Bradbury writes about how society has gotten away from what makes civilizations prosper. The futuristic society is centered on immediate visual entertainment, self-gratification, and drifting through life with smelling a single rose. The busy day of life has become a trap because the citizens have become too busy to read a book. Instead, the television and radio is making them uninformed and robots waiting on someone else to give them the interpretation of life. Guy is a perfect example of being unaware, uninformed, and self-absorbed in burning books while relying what others say how to live and think.

The primary theme is the interest groups can control the people by controlling what they read. The society can not make changes or adjustments to humanity when oppressed. Bradbury cleverly used parables to explain that the government was not the oppressor it was the will of a few people or minorities. One of primary purposes of worldwide censorship of books is because the things we read invoke us to think outside of the box often leading to change or a revolution. Bradbury makes the point with Guy interest in saving the religious books to prevent the world from making the mistakes of previous civilizations. The knowledge must be passed on in order for the world to survive the futuristic wars.Bradbury sends a message throughout the novel exposing to the reader what happens when any group, government, or interest group controls what you read, view, and hear. The systematic burning of the books represents the destruction of the human race. In the end, Montag has grown to believe that the books not only save the world but it saves his own soul. Montag went from fireman to freethinker to advocate to hero saving the most precious gift to the world is the “Book of Ecclesiastes.” The goal is to preserve God in the lives of the new race.

Works Cited

American Library Association. (2014). Censorship of Fahrenheit 451: ALA’s Banned Books Resource Guide. Retrieved October 18, 2014 from http://faifebookclub.ala.org/?page_id=30

Cliffnotes. (2014).Fahrenheit 451: Ray Bradbury. Retrieved October 18, 2014 from http://www.cliffsnotes.com/literature/f/fahrenheit-451/summary-and-analysis/part-1

Enotes. (2014).Ray Bradbury: Fahrenheit 451. Retrieved October 18, 2014 from http://www.enotes.com/topics/fahrenheit-451

Flock, E. (2011). Fahrenheit 451,’ 50 Years Later, Still Sharply Divides Readers Over Ray Bradbury. Washington Post. Retrieved October 18, 2014 http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worldviews/post/fahrenheit-451-50-years-later-still-sharply-divides-readers-over-ray-bradbury/2011/08/26/gIQAn596fJ_blog.html

Johnston, A.E. (2007, May).Ray Bradbury: Fahrenheit 451 Misinterpreted. Retrieve October 18, 2014 http://www.laweekly.com/2007-05-31/news/ray-bradbury-fahrenheit-451-misinterpreted/

Rotten Tomatoes. (2014). Fahrenheit 451. Retrieved October 18, 2014 from http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1007003-fahrenheit_451/

Sparknotes. (2014).Fahrenheit 451: Ray Bradbury. Retrieved from http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/451/section1.rhtml

Telgen, D. (2007).Fahrenheit 451: Novels for Students: Character Overview, Critical Essay, Plot Summary. CenageLearning.Vol . 1,138-157

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The Fahrenheit 451 Connections to Modern Day Essay

The modern obsession with social media and clip thinking makes the society wonder: if the books are still as useful as they was before? You may easily find in the Internet any information you need, you don’t have to memorise it anymore. The movies and games are the sources of easy emotions that (if we talk about mass market products) doesn’t involve too much thinking.

The modern person is overloaded with information without time and ability to actually process it. The dystopia about burning books to prevent the shallow culture from disrupting seems ridiculous – we still have our freedoms at all – but what is so Fahrenheit in our social media?

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Lots of people don’t see much sense in reading books. Reading is one of the most resource-consuming process in our brain. Not only we have to transcribe written symbols into words and words into ideas and images, we also have to cooperate with the author. The two people who read the same book will describe the two different words, two appearances of main character, different landscapes and even different aesop (if it isn’t too blatant).

But in modern life we are too often exhausted to the extent that our brain wants to go into power saving mode. Our brains are hardwired to be lazy, because in the wild nature it’s too energy-consuming to think too much. So if we can skip the thinking process, relying on our habits or genetic memory, we will instinctively do so.

The modern society of the developing countries is the society of excess. We all have plenty of food, a reliable shelter, mostly our basic needs are met. But the very principles of our life that should free our time and resources for reading books and indulging in intellectual pleasures deny us them. As we have sources of easy food that quickly makes us feel fed (e.g. hot dogs and hamburgers), we have same sources of emotions.

We can watch a soap opera to cry and rejoice, or a toilet humor comedy to have an easy fun. Classical literature, on the contrary, mostly invokes heavy thinking and controversial emotions: there are no one totally good or totally bad, every books presents us with moral dilemmas and devours lots and lots of time that we can use to achieve success in life.

We can easily spend time for reading professional literature, because we know that it is an investment in our success, in our salary and respect from the colleagues. We read psychological guides to improve our relationships or training manuals to enhance our body. But culture of reading to develop our emotional sphere slowly goes to extinction. Like in Fahrenheit 451 we use social media for short memes, shallow messages and socially accepted emotions. We can make any image of us we want to and we can simply switch off the people who are upsetting us right now.

But as exhausting training make us feel pain in stretching muscles – the pain that helps us grow – the emotional pain we may feel through reading also makes us more empathic and more self-aware, because we can investigate the sources of the feeling the book invoked. We have a chance to meet ourselves, with all our vulnerabilities, insecurities and flow and change something inside our very soul. But this process terrifies humans, it’s natura.

We all prefer to see ourselves in the limelight, the exaggerated, idealized image. We photoshop our photos in social media and copy and paste mindful quotes to look beautiful and balanced. But the more we do this, the worse seems the idea to look beneath that and see the real person. We are Dorians Grays on a civilization scale.

The story of burning books in Fahrenheit 451 began exactly from that. The different social, ethnic, racial, sexual and other groups started to complain that they feel offended with their portrayal in the books. The writers, horrified by fines for discrimination, started to write all-shiny books with no bad characters at all, just not to offend anyone. Still, the complaints continued, with the degradation of the emotional sphere of the people. Finally the government decided to forbid the books altogether and destroy them whenever they would be found.

Sometimes it is used by the conservators as a proof that excessive tolerance can lead to the shallowness of the society, so the minority rights activists are heading towards the event of this dystopia. But, actually, it is just another facet of our brain’s laziness. Brain likes to generalize. So, if we read about the character and the character appears to be bad or morally ambiguous and is unlike us, we have an instinctive temptation to generalize: that’s because they are of other skin color, sex, class etc.

They are not like me, so they are bad, I am good. The logical scheme of the cavepeople still works in us. So the tide of complaints in the book is not a cause, it’s a symptom. Instead of thinking over the subjects of the books, make personal conclusions and try to achieve balance and diversity in the literature to avoid turning of the books to anti-someone propaganda, they decided to blatantly complain.

Alas, we start seeing such attitude more and more often. Actually, it has always been here, but now, with the development of social media and easy access to the information, it can be shown as widely as in Fahrenheit 451, creating the illusion of it as a major point of view. We don’t have stimuli to develop emotionally anymore, we always have the option to turn down anything that makes us angry, upset or too thinkful and the life will still be fine. So people try to transfer such an attitude to the real life, demanding to “switch off” the books they dislike.

The major mistake of this point is that in social media we operate our personal data. Unfriending someone on Facebook won’t erase them from reality, but will effectively separate you from them. Mostly it is enough to feel comfortable in your own data bubble full of pleasant things. But instead of using this bubble as our safe place, as the source of energy we can use in real life, we succumb to our instincts and go the easy way. We try to do the same with reality, we want to “unfriend” books, social groups and other things that we dislike. But the reality doesn’t work that way.

The main cause of the shallowness in Fahrenheit 451 isn’t the excessive tolerance or general evilness of the government. It is just losing ability to cope with one’s emotions. The desire to live the life full of pleasures led to reducing their skill of dealing with unpleasant emotions. So the only psychological defence to live through it left is to aggressively deny them in any way possible, even by fire.

The Middle Ages were harsh times, but then death, wars, poverty and misfortunes were common in every society. People developed a culture of mourning with set stages of letting it go (for example, reducing the amount of black color in clothes after certain amount of time as symbol of living through the loss).

But nowadays there are a lot of services that separate us from death from its very moment. We prefer not to know about it. Of course, it lifts the emotional burden from us, but it also strips us of the important side of our personality. We will inevitably face traumas, injustice, sorrow, fear and pain. Pretending that they don’t exist won’t protect us from it. So the minor ones that we have while quarreling or breaking up with our partners, even if our playground friend mocks us with bad nicknames, are the kind of vaccine that strengthens our psychological immunity.

A person who didn’t experience any traumas is unable to develop in real conditions. The positive stress that challenges us all to do something extraordinary will be a catastrophe for them, making them curl in fetal position instead of using it to do something. Portraying anger and sorrow solely as something bad cuts away half of our emotional spectre leaving us crippled forever.

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