Here we go!
- “The Hearth and the Salamander” seems an odd choice for a chapter title. Why do you suppose Bradbury chose it? What connections did he want to create? (hint: in mythology, the salamander is a fire lizard, said to be capable of starting and putting out fires) -This uniquely named chapter was name as it is I think to foreshadow its theme the "Salamander represents Guy, a fireman, however, he is no normal fireman he starts fires. In homes specifically (the hearths). Furthermore, when Guy goes into the homes to burn the books which I feel the books are a way to reveal humanity and feeling of insight. This expresses the the theme of how the humanity and individualism in society is burning away.
- The lines, “It was a pleasure to burn. It was a special pleasure to see things eaten, to see things blackened and changed” (1) tell the reader a great deal about the protagonist, Guy Montag. What assumptions can the reader make? -Guy Montag, he is fireman, that starts the fires instead of putting them out. He goes into houses and burns books. He is unhappy. But, he is misunderstood. However, after reading the lines above numerous negative assumptions could be made about Montag. Readers can infer he is evil, heartless, unimaginative, cruel, and simply vile. Like, literally who can enjoy seeing something burn. It is a very unusual trait.
- Bradbury’s use of metaphor and animal imagery begins on page one of the novel. He writes, “With the brass nozzle in his fists, with this great python spitting its venomous kerosene upon the world, the blood pounded in his head...” (1). Why would he have chosen to characterize a fire hose as a “great python?” Is the imagery positive or negative? -Bradbury chooses the "Great Python" to symbolize he fire because pythons spit out venom or in the case of the fire kerosene. This is an extremely negative imagery as the "venom" in any case is a bad trait as it typically leads to deadly harm in some way.
- Also on the first page, we learn that Montag’s fire-helmet is inscribed with the number 451. What is the symbolic importance of this number? -The significance behind this number is that this number is the exact temperature where book-paper burns. Therefore, showing the temperature at which Guy uses to burn the books.
- Explain how Clarisse McClellan is first described. What is it about her that immediately strikes Montag? -Clarisse is initially described as an "out of place" kind of girl she stands out in the society written in the novel. Guy is intrigued by her outgoing personality and "confusing" outlook on life.
- The names “Clarisse” and “Guy” are significant. How? -The name Clarisse is important because its origin word means clear and she clearly states what on her mind and her mind is untouched by this inhumane society. As for Guy, it means
- Clarisse questions Montag about his way of life. How does she question him, and how does he react to her questions?
- During the first conversation between Clarisse and Montag the reader discovers several odd things about the society in which these two characters live. Describe at least three odd things we learn.
- Montag employs two similes in thinking of Clarisse. What comparisons does he make and why?
- What does Montag realize about himself after Clarisse leaves him the first time?
- What are “Seashells” and how does Montag’s wife, Mildred/Millie, use them?
- There is a stark difference between Bradbury’s first description of Clarisse and his first description of Mildred. What does the reference to her face (11) signify and how does it contribute to our understanding of both her character and the marriage between Montag and Mildred?
- Describe the machine used on Mildred. Explain the symbolism.
- Montag’s comment that “Nobody knows anyone” (14) is telling. What is the epiphany he has?
- Unthinkingly, Montage finds himself drawn to the window of the McClellan household. Explain the contrast between his house and this one. What does the contrast tell the reader about society at large?
- Montag’s confused statement, “‘I don’t know anything anymore’” (15) signifies a pivotal moment in the text. Explain.
- When Mildred wakes up from her near-death experience, she does not seem to remember what happened. Describe her mood at this point. Why has Bradbury characterized her this way? What does Millie’s conversation with Montag reveal about her?
- Why does Clarisse visit the psychiatrist?
- What is “the Hound” and what is its function? Why is Montag bothered by the Hound?
- Why does the woman want to stay-- and burn, and die--with her books, rather than surrender to the fireman and leave the books and her home to burn?
