Critiques of American Society in Science Fiction

Question 1

Which character types would best support Vonnegut’s critique of America’s fixation on television?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

flat and static

Question 2

Which of the following did you use to generate your question? Check all that apply.

Revolt · Accepted Answer

Who; What; When; Where; Why; How

Question 3

Which evidence supports the interpretation that “Harrison Bergeron” represents a society in which efforts at equality have destroyed personal freedom? Check the two best choices.

Revolt · Accepted Answer

“All this equality was due to . . . the unceasing vigilance of agents of the United States Handicapper General.”; “The realization was blasted from his mind instantly by the sound of an automobile collision in his head.”

Question 4

There are many different interpretations of Vonnegut’s short story “Harrison Bergeron.” Which interpretations represent your view of Vonnegut’s central message? Check any that apply.

Revolt · Accepted Answer

Absolute equality will prevent individual thought and personal freedoms of expression.; Television limits individual thought and creativity.; Government control should be limited to prevent a threat to freedom.; The fear of communist invasion is a result of government-controlled media.; Paranoia leads to a repressive society.

Question 5

Explain how Vonnegut uses flat, static characters like George Bergeron to develop his critique of 1950s American society.

Revolt · Accepted Answer

Vonnegut uses flat characters like George Bergeron to exaggerate the lack of individuality that results when a society forces absolute equality. Because the characters are static and never grow or change, he emphasizes that citizens cannot develop freely in a completely equal society.

Question 6

How does your answer compare to the sample? I included many of the same points.I included some of the same points.I did not include the same points.

Revolt · Accepted Answer

I included many of the same points.

Critiques of American Society in Science Fiction Answers

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