In order to study for the exam, read through each of the following questions, think of specific detailed answers, and write down a few notes for each. Also read through all of your notes and reading quizzes on the novel. If you want to earn extra credit, write out complete answers to each question and you may earn up to 10% extra credit on the exam. In order to earn the extra credit, you must hand in your study questions before you take the exam. The exam will be given next week.
1. Describe each of the following characters (Granger, Beatty, Faber, Clarisse, Mildred)
2. Define the term metaphor, write down an example of a metaphor or a simile from the novel, and write down your own example.
3. Define the term personification, write down an example from the novel, and write down your own example.
4. How does Bradbury’s use of figurative language contribute to the meaning of the novel as a whole?
5. What does Bradbury's novel suggest about the problems of our society today? Be specific.
6. Describe how Montag changes throughout the novel. Give a few examples and be specific.
7. Describe the personalities of Mildred’s TV-watching friends. Give several specific examples.
8. Describe the scene where the firemen try burn the library, but the woman who owns it lights the match and burns herself. Why is this significant. How does this influence Montag's future?
9. Compare and contrast Clarisse and Mildred. Be specific. How do they work as a foil?
10. List at least six specific similarities between our society and the one described in 451.
11. Analyze the part of the 451 society that Bradbury doesn’t directly describe to us. How does the government work? Who’s running the war? Who keeps all the technology going? Who tracks all the “criminals”? How can an entire society function if everyone is brainless?
12. What does the mechanical hound symbolize? What parallels it in our society? Why does it have so much power over the people of Fahrenheit 451?
13. What does the phoenix symbolize? Why is it an appropriate symbol for the firemen?
14. List some of the main themes in the novel. What is the message behind Bradbury’s novel (what is he trying to teach us)?
15. What incidents cause Montag to begin seeing the world differently and to begin changing?
16. What does Beatty think of books? How does he attempt to influence Montag about books?
17. Interpret the ending of the novel. Is it a positive or negative ending? What does Bradbury suggest about the future of the 451 society?