Fahrenheit 451 Symbols
Fire Symbolizes destruction Firemen who burn books 451 the temperature at which paper and books burn Clarisse Reminds Montag of candle-light When controlled, symbolizes self- awareness and knowledge
The Phoenix A bird that is consumed by flames, but then rises from the ashes Symbolic for renewal A life that follows death
The Hearth and the Salamander Both associated with fire Hearths (fireplaces) provide warmth for the home Salamanders were believed to live in fire without harm
The Sieve and the Sand Sand represents Montag’s seeking of knowledge (childhood memory) Sieve represents his mind trying to grasp and retain this knowledge
Symbolic Reflection Think, Pair, Share How does Bradbury’s use of symbols add meaning to F451? Can you think of something else that Clarisse symbolizes? Montag? Mildred? Discuss with a partner. Make a connection to modern day and symbols that are important to our society Why are symbols important to us? What are some symbols we have and their meaning? Discuss with a partner and be prepared to share.