Question

Harrison Bergeron

1. Think about what your "talent" is that you thought of. How would someone handicap or stop your talent?

2 Who is the narrator of this story?

3. How would this story be told differently if Harrison was the narrator?

4. How would this story be told differently if Diana Moon Glampers was the narrator?

5. What are the drawbacks of a perfectly fair society like the one in the story?

6. America has historically been very capitalist and free market, unlike the government in the story. We have a less socialized government than many countries and tend to let people succeed or fail based on their talent (to an extent)
However, like we discussed before, the Declaration of Independence says that all people are created equal How do we balance this?

7. Based on the ending of the story, how do you think the author feels about this kind of society?

Answer 1

Answer: given below

Step-by-step explanation:

1. In "Harrison Bergeron," if someone wanted to handicap or stop my talent, they might impose physical restraints or limitations on me, restrict my access to resources or opportunities, or enforce strict regulations and controls to ensure everyone is equal regardless of their abilities.

2. The narrator of the story is an unnamed third-person narrator who provides an objective perspective on the events and characters.

3. If Harrison was the narrator, the story would likely be told from a more rebellious and defiant tone. Harrison's perspective would provide insight into his thoughts, motivations, and his desire to overthrow the oppressive system. It would emphasize the struggle for individuality and freedom.

4. If Diana Moon Glampers, the Handicapper General, was the narrator, the story would likely be presented from a more authoritarian and bureaucratic perspective. The focus would be on maintaining societal order, suppressing individual differences, and justifying the measures taken to ensure equality.

5. The drawbacks of a perfectly fair society depicted in the story include the loss of individuality, creativity, and personal freedom. The imposition of handicaps limits people's abilities and prevents them from reaching their full potential. It suppresses innovation, achievement, and the pursuit of excellence, resulting in a stagnant and unfulfilling society.

6. Balancing the idea of equality stated in the Declaration of Independence with the principles of capitalism and free markets is a complex challenge. It involves creating a society that provides equal opportunities for all while still allowing individuals to strive for success and rewarding their talents and efforts. This can be achieved through policies that ensure access to quality education, healthcare, and social support systems, promoting a level playing field, and addressing systemic inequalities.

7. Based on the ending of the story, it can be inferred that the author, Kurt Vonnegut, has a critical view of this kind of society. The climax of the story, with Harrison defying the oppressive rules and subsequently being killed, suggests a condemnation of extreme egalitarianism and the suppression of individuality. The author seems to highlight the importance of embracing diversity, embracing individual talents, and questioning the notion of absolute equality.