A Story Told by Characters

In Fahrenheit 451. Ray Bradbury uses the development of characters in order to show the

contrasting roles of people in society. This is significant as this shows how people either conform

to societal pressures or reject it. Mildred, Beatty, and Clarisse are static characters where Faber

and Montag are dynamic characters.

Montag and Faber undergo important events that change their philosophy and way of

thinking. Conversely; Mildred, Beatty, and Clarisse don’t undergo a significant change in the

novel. Montag at first was much like his wife, content with his role as a fireman. But as he

witnessed Clarisse’s death; he starts wanting to learn more. As a result, he read a book and

decided to go on a quest of meaning. Faber who had succumbed to the current world order. This

changes as he decides to rebel against society. He was no longer content with his role. Lastly;

Clarisse, Mildred, and Beatty stay anchored to their beliefs till their deaths/exit and don’t change

their thinking. This plays a significant role on the novel.

The insight provided by Ray Bradbury’s characterization shows the theme whenever

there’s a pivotal moment in the story. (complex)The audience gets to witness the trials and

tribulations that Montag and Faber face and how they circumnavigate them. As a result; this

novel shows the theme of creative thinking. The will to learn more things. Every single person

should be in the process of learning in order to live a content life. In the novel, people were

brainwashed into a decay of learning; thus, the rate of suicide sky rocketed because there was no

substantial meaning in life. (compound/complex) Mildred tried to “kill” herself and Beatty most

likely wanted to die. However, Montag and Faber were prime examples of people being true to

themselves and seeking out meaning. Essentially though the use of dynamic characters such as

Montag and Faber; Ray Bradbury showed what a society devoid of thinking would look like.