Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 AN INTRODUCTION

Fahrenheit 451’s Dystopic Setting This novel is set in the twenty fourth century. It tells the story of Guy Montag, a thirty year old fireman whose job is to start fires, not put them out. The firemen in this society burn books because owning books is illegal, as well as reading. Reading is associated with thinking for yourself and developing ideas, which the government discourages through censorship.

Bradbury’s Time Period This novel was published in 1953. During this time period, technology was rapidly developing, and the entertainment industry was expanding through televisions for the first time. In addition, U.S. Senator Joseph McCarthy began a televised anti-Communist witch-hunt. This became known as “McCarthyism.” The United States eventually declared that Communist countries like Russia to be enemies. The US government portrayed Communists as evil by spreading propaganda centered on hatred of them.

Bradbury’s Warning and Predictions Bradbury saw how quickly the world was changing, which he felt was dangerous. Fahrenheit 451 is meant to warn people of what would happen if society continued down what he believed was a dangerous path. Many of his predictions have come true, particularly those having to do with technological developments.

Guy Montag Montag is the protagonist of the novel. As a fireman, he burns books, which are illegal. He fits the description of a dystopian protagonist because he loses faith in his job and lifestyle.

Mildred (Millie) Montag Montag’s wife of ten years. She does not share Montag’s feelings about the censorship happening in their society. Their marriage seems quite loveless, and she escapes this reality through her giant televisions and radio shows.

Clarisse McClellan Clarisse is Montag’s new 17 year old neighbor. Despite her youth, Clarisse isn’t interested in the technological advancements like Millie. Clarisse helps Montag understand how their world is a dystopia.

Captain Beatty Captain Beatty is the antagonist of the novel and Montag’s boss. Captain Beatty agrees with the book burning that they do and with the ideals of their society.

Professor Faber Professor Faber is an intellectual man who disapproves of his society, especially book burning. However, he does not want to voice his dissatisfaction, and would rather stay quiet to maintain his safety.

Mechanical Hound The Mechanical Hound is a piece of technology that can track down anyone and destroy him or her once its sensors have been set.

Salamander Symbolism A salamander is a lizard-like amphibian. According to legend, a salamander can endure fire without getting burned.

Phoenix Symbol A phoenix is a multicolored bird from an Arabian myth. According to the myth, at the end of its life cycle, a phoenix will sing until its body ignites. Out of the ashes, a worm appears, which eventually develops into another phoenix.