Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury Part I The

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury Part I “The Hearth and The Salamander”

Mythological References • The Hearth • The Salamander • The Phoenix To what extent are these images and allusions relevant so far within the context of the novel? Why is each ironic?

The Hearth • Reference to the Greek Goddess of the Hearth, Hestia • Associated with the “homefire, ” a fireplace, the heart of the home and family Why relevant? Why ironic?

The Salamander • A mythological “fire lizard” – Thought to be FIRE RESISTANT – Also believed to have the ability to PUT OUT FIRES – Believed to be “born in fire” Why relevant? Why ironic?

The Phoenix • A mythological bird which lives 500 years. • According to myth, a phoenix dies in flames but rises from the ashes. Why relevant? Why ironic?

Role of Technology • Montag’s television includes headphones called “seashells. ” • The “wall-to-wall circuit” allows Mildred to enter the “play, ” and therefore the television programming. What are some other examples of technology you have noticed in the novel so far?

Role of Technology, continued • How does the technology of the novel compare to our current technology? • In the first pages of the novel, to what extent does technology improve the quality of life for Montag and his wife Mildred? • Does technology ALWAYS improve the quality of our lives? When might it be a detriment?

Main Characters: • Montag • Clarisse • Mildred • Beatty Describe each character listed above. What motivates each at this point in the novel? What is each character’s objective? For each character, list a properly cited supporting quote and explain its significance.

Themes • Take a look at Captain Beatty’s monologue on pp. 57 -59. • According to Beatty, why are books no longer relevant in society? • According to Beatty, in what way does burning books protect society? • To what extent are Beatty’s observations true about current society?