Fahrenheit 451, Ray Bradbury

Conventions and ATAR Concepts

Context
TASK: Relate the following contextual features to specific aspects of the novel. Include
quotes to support your ideas
 Bradbury’s authorial context
 World War II and the Cold War
 Rise of technology during the 1950s
 Any other relevant contexts of production

Authorial context:
Ray Bradbury wrote the book in 9 days in the UCLA library on a typewriter.
He was able to grab books off the shelfs in the library and add them to his book.

World War II:

The book burning in Fahrenheit 451 was inspired by Hitler, who burnt books in the streets of Berlin when Bradbury was 15.
Before and during the war Germany’s Nazi regime waged a campaign of intense censorship that included book burning and
exerted broad control over media, including radio, film and print.

Nuclear and the Cold war:

Generic conventions
Dystopian genre
TASK: Identify at least 6 specific features of the dystopian genre in the novel
 Narrative conventions of a prose novel
Use the Narrative Conventions documents on Connect to help you complete the following tasks

PLOT
TASK: Briefly summarise the novel according to the sections of a narrative arc in the following diagram.

Climax

Falling action
Rising action

Denouement

Complication

Exposition
 CHARACTERS
TASK 1: List characters who fit into the following categories
 Protagonist:
 Antagonist:
 Major characters:
 Minor characters:
 Highlight characters above who are stock characters

TASK 2: Use the Characters/PAIRS document, to identify features for each

character
Montag:

Beatty:

Mildred:

Clarisse:
 Setting
TASK: List and explain significance of time, place, objects/symbols

Themes
TASK: Explore the following themes and any other significant themes you consider convey
important ideas and issues

Freedom vs censorship

Media and technology

Individuality vs conformity

Other theme?
 Montag
TASK: Relate each of the ATAR concepts below to the character above and include
evidence to support your ideas. Continue on another page if necessary.

Attitudes are broadly positive, negative or neutral. Characters and

authors will express attitudes in a text through idea and themes,
Representations: characters, plot, setting and atmosphere, tone, dialogue and other
written and/or visual features. Attitudes can be open-minded or involve
prejudice and stereotyping.
Values are often expressed by attitudes. Values are important and lasting
beliefs or ideals of an individual or shared by a culture or group. They are
guiding principles that dictate behaviour and can help people understand
the difference between right and wrong, what is desirable or
undesirable. Particular values and attitudes can be endorsed or
challenged in a text. Readers and audiences are also positioned to
respond to values and attitudes in a text.

Values and attitudes

Voice can relate to:

 Characters in narratives, including short stories and films, from first
person point of view, dialogue, action, thoughts, specific attributes,
tone of voice, attitudes and values etc. Think of tone to describe
voice: authoritative, serious, flippant and dismissive, urgent, excited
and eager, arrogant, voice of experience etc.
 A third person narrator can also have a voice and reflect the author
and their beliefs, values, concerns or contextual influences. Authorial Perspectives may remain constant or be influenced or changed over time.
intrusion can directly address the audience. Perspectives in a text can vary, so consider:
 Voice can also relate to voiceovers in film, the voice of a speaker of a  Perspectives of specific characters or groups within a text.
TED talk or speech. Also consider tone of voice and verbal features to  Perspective of the author or director or speaker.
convey ideas, values and attitudes etc.  Perspective of audiences: consider how different contexts of
 Voice may change as a speaker/character develops their ideas or as production and reception influence perspective and interpretation.
character develops over time.
Perspectives (of Mildred, Beatty, society, his profession,
Voice
books, the Establishment, reader perspectives: dominant,
resistant, alternative readings etc.)
 Beatty
TASK: Relate each of the ATAR concepts below to the character above and include
evidence to support your ideas. Continue on another page if necessary.

Attitudes are broadly positive, negative or neutral. Characters and

authors will express attitudes in a text through idea and themes,
characters, plot, setting and atmosphere, tone, dialogue and other
written and/or visual features. Attitudes can be open-minded or involve
prejudice and stereotyping.
Values are often expressed by attitudes. Values are important and lasting
beliefs or ideals of an individual or shared by a culture or group. They are
guiding principles that dictate behaviour and can help people understand
the difference between right and wrong, what is desirable or
undesirable. Particular values and attitudes can be endorsed or
challenged in a text. Readers and audiences are also positioned to
respond to values and attitudes in a text.

Values and attitudes

Voice can relate to:

 Characters in narratives, including short stories and films, from first
person point of view, dialogue, action, thoughts, specific attributes,
tone of voice, attitudes and values etc. Think of tone to describe
voice: authoritative, serious, flippant and dismissive, urgent, excited
and eager, arrogant, voice of experience etc.
 A third person narrator can also have a voice and reflect the author
and their beliefs, values, concerns or contextual influences. Authorial Perspectives may remain constant or be influenced or changed over time.
intrusion can directly address the audience. Perspectives in a text can vary, so consider:
 Voice can also relate to voiceovers in film, the voice of a speaker of a  Perspectives of specific characters or groups within a text.
TED talk or speech. Also consider tone of voice and verbal features to  Perspective of the author or director or speaker.
convey ideas, values and attitudes etc.  Perspective of audiences: consider how different contexts of
 Voice may change as a speaker/character develops their ideas or as production and reception influence perspective and interpretation.
character develops over time.
Perspectives (of Montag, Beatty, society, his profession,
Voice
books, the Establishment, reader perspectives: dominant,
resistant, alternative readings etc.)
 Mildred
TASK: Relate each of the ATAR concepts below to the character above and include
evidence to support your ideas. Continue on another page if necessary.
Representations:
Mildred is depicted as a conformist who is
obsessed with watching television and taking
sleeping pills. She is portrayed as a shallow and
unhappy character who is unable to connect with
her husband, Montag, or understand his desire to
read books. Mildred is also shown as a product of
the oppressive society depicted in the novel,
where free thought and intellectual curiosity are
suppressed by the government. In Fahrenheit
451, Mildred's character serves as a warning
about the dangers of conformity and the
importance of critical thinking.
Voice can relate to:
 Characters in narratives, including short stories and films, from first
person point of view, dialogue, action, thoughts, specific attributes,
tone of voice, attitudes and values etc. Think of tone to describe
voice: authoritative, serious, flippant and dismissive, urgent, excited
and eager, arrogant, voice of experience etc.
 A third person narrator can also have a voice and reflect the author
and their beliefs, values, concerns or contextual influences. Authorial
intrusion can directly address the audience.
 Voice can also relate to voiceovers in film, the voice of a speaker of a
TED talk or speech. Also consider tone of voice and verbal features to
convey ideas, values and attitudes etc.
 Voice may change as a speaker/character develops their ideas or as
character develops over time.
In "Fahrenheit 451," Mildred's concept of voice is
characterized by a profound lack thereof. She represents
the epitome of a voiceless individual in a society controlled
by oppressive forces. Mildred's voice is drowned out by the
incessant noise of mindless entertainment on the parlor
walls, which consume her attention and prevent any
genuine expression of her thoughts or emotions. She
conforms blindly to the government's narrative and exhibits
no inclination to question or challenge the status quo. Her
interactions with others lack depth, reflecting an emotional
disconnection from her own feelings and those of others.
Mildred's perspective is heavily influenced by the
propaganda fed to her, leaving her devoid of any original
ideas or independent thought. Her silence and apathy serve
as a haunting reminder of the dehumanizing effects of a
society that suppresses individuality and discourages free
expression.
Attitudes are broadly positive, negative or neutral. Characters and
authors will express attitudes in a text through idea and themes,
characters, plot, setting and atmosphere, tone, dialogue and other
written and/or visual features. Attitudes can be open-minded or involve
prejudice and stereotyping.
Values are often expressed by attitudes. Values are important and lasting
beliefs or ideals of an individual or shared by a culture or group. They are
guiding principles that dictate behaviour and can help people understand
the difference between right and wrong, what is desirable or
undesirable. Particular values and attitudes can be endorsed or
challenged in a text. Readers and audiences are also positioned to
respond to values and attitudes in a text.
Mildred's values and attitudes are largely shaped
by the dystopian society in which she lives. She
prioritizes superficial entertainment over
meaningful human interaction and does not
engage in intellectual discussions with her
husband. She also values conformity over
individuality and critical thinking, which is a
reflection of the broader societal values in the
novel. Her reliance on sleeping pills and
emotional instability also suggest a lack of
resilience and coping skills, which may be a
result of the oppressive and stifling environment
Perspectives may remain constant or be influenced or changed over time.
Perspectives in a text can vary, so consider:
 Perspectives of specific characters or groups within a text.
 Perspective of the author or director or speaker.
 Perspective of audiences: consider how different contexts of
production and reception influence perspective and interpretation.
In Ray Bradbury's "Fahrenheit 451," Mildred's perspective
reflects a deeply ingrained conformity to the oppressive
society in which she resides. She is the epitome of a
conformist, obediently accepting the government's
ideology without question. The burning of books and
suppression of free thought are simply accepted as the
norm, and she shows no desire to challenge or question
the authority's decisions. Instead of engaging in meaningful
discussions or exploring her own thoughts and emotions,
Mildred seeks refuge in the shallow and mindless
entertainment provided by the parlor walls. Her emotional
disconnect is evident, as she appears apathetic towards
her husband, Guy Montag, and is unable to establish
genuine connections with others. Her perspective
exemplifies the dangers of a society that stifles
individuality and critical thinking, choosing instead to
follow the prescribed path without hesitation.
 Clarisse
TASK: Relate each of the ATAR concepts below to the character above and include
evidence to support your ideas. Continue on another page if necessary.
In "Fahrenheit 451," Clarisse McClellan is portrayed as a
symbol of free-thinking, curiosity, and nonconformity. Her
character represents the embodiment of intellectual
curiosity, constantly posing thought-provoking questions
and showing a genuine interest in the world around her. In
a society dominated by mindless entertainment and
conformity, Clarisse stands out as an individual who
embraces her uniqueness and refuses to suppress her true
self. Her nonconformist nature challenges the shallow and
oppressive norms of her society, inspiring those around her
to question their own lives and beliefs. Clarisse's presence
in the story serves as a powerful reminder of the
importance of embracing one's individuality and the
significance of genuine human connections in a world that
seeks to silence independent thought and expression.
Voice can relate to:
 Characters in narratives, including short stories and films, from first
person point of view, dialogue, action, thoughts, specific attributes,
tone of voice, attitudes and values etc. Think of tone to describe
voice: authoritative, serious, flippant and dismissive, urgent, excited
and eager, arrogant, voice of experience etc.
 A third person narrator can also have a voice and reflect the author
and their beliefs, values, concerns or contextual influences. Authorial
intrusion can directly address the audience.
 Voice can also relate to voiceovers in film, the voice of a speaker of a
TED talk or speech. Also consider tone of voice and verbal features to
convey ideas, values and attitudes etc.
 Voice may change as a speaker/character develops their ideas or as
character develops over time.
In "Fahrenheit 451," Clarisse McClellan is portrayed as a refreshing
contrast to the conformist society in which she lives, making her a
powerful representation of the concept of voice. Unlike the
majority of people who mindlessly follow the government's
dictates, Clarisse embodies curiosity, free thinking, and a genuine
interest in human connections. Her voice is that of an inquisitive
soul, unafraid to ask profound questions about life, nature, and
the world around her. She challenges the superficiality of her
society by discussing meaningful topics and expressing her
individuality through her unique perspectives and observations.
Clarisse's presence in the story sparks a transformation in Guy
Montag, the protagonist, as he begins to question the emptiness
of his own existence and the society he once unquestioningly
embraced. Her absence later in the novel emphasizes the loss of
genuine human voice and the consequences of silencing those
who dare to think differently. Clarisse represents the power of
genuine expression and the significance of embracing one's own
voice amidst a world that seeks to suppress it.
Attitudes are broadly positive, negative or neutral. Characters and
authors will express attitudes in a text through idea and themes,
characters, plot, setting and atmosphere, tone, dialogue and other
written and/or visual features. Attitudes can be open-minded or involve
prejudice and stereotyping.
Values are often expressed by attitudes. Values are important and lasting
beliefs or ideals of an individual or shared by a culture or group. They are
guiding principles that dictate behaviour and can help people understand
the difference between right and wrong, what is desirable or
undesirable. Particular values and attitudes can be endorsed or
challenged in a text. Readers and audiences are also positioned to
respond to values and attitudes in a text.
Clarisse McClellan's character in "Fahrenheit 451" is defined by
an insatiable curiosity and open-mindedness. She possesses a
genuine interest in understanding the world on a deeper level
and constantly challenges the shallow and conformist society
around her. Her attitude of curiosity is evident through her
thought-provoking questions and sincere engagement in
conversations, inspiring those she encounters to question their
own lives and beliefs. Clarisse values meaningful human
connections and embraces empathy, refusing to conform to the
oppressive norms of her society. Her presence serves as a
powerful reminder of the importance of embracing individuality,
genuine interactions, and the pursuit of knowledge amidst a
world that seeks to suppress them.
Perspectives may remain constant or be influenced or changed over time.
Perspectives in a text can vary, so consider:
 Perspectives of specific characters or groups within a text.
 Perspective of the author or director or speaker.
 Perspective of audiences: consider how different contexts of
production and reception influence perspective and interpretation.
In "Fahrenheit 451," Clarisse McClellan's perspective is one
of curiosity and wonder in a society dominated by
conformity and superficiality. She challenges the norms,
asking thought-provoking questions that prompt
introspection in others, particularly in Guy Montag.
Clarisse's nonconformist nature and genuine interest in
human connections serve as a poignant reminder of the
importance of embracing individuality and intellectual
curiosity in a world that seeks to suppress them. Her brief
presence leaves a lasting impact, representing the value of
maintaining one's unique perspective and genuine human
interactions amidst a society that discourages such traits.
 Society
TASK: Relate each of the ATAR concepts below to the character above and include
evidence to support your ideas. Continue on another page if necessary.
In "Fahrenheit 451," society is depicted as a dystopian
world where intellectual freedom is suppressed, and
mindless conformity and shallow entertainment reign.
Books are banned and burned, knowledge is stifled, and
genuine human connections are replaced by instant
gratification and emotional emptiness. The obsession with
pleasure-seeking and detachment from reality leads to a
society devoid of critical thinking and meaningful purpose.
The novel serves as a warning against sacrificing
individuality and intellectual freedom, highlighting the
importance of preserving authentic human connections to
avoid a bleak and dehumanized future.
Voice can relate to:
 Characters in narratives, including short stories and films, from first
person point of view, dialogue, action, thoughts, specific attributes,
tone of voice, attitudes and values etc. Think of tone to describe
voice: authoritative, serious, flippant and dismissive, urgent, excited
and eager, arrogant, voice of experience etc.
 A third person narrator can also have a voice and reflect the author
and their beliefs, values, concerns or contextual influences. Authorial
intrusion can directly address the audience.
 Voice can also relate to voiceovers in film, the voice of a speaker of a
TED talk or speech. Also consider tone of voice and verbal features to
convey ideas, values and attitudes etc.
 Voice may change as a speaker/character develops their ideas or as
character develops over time.
In "Fahrenheit 451," society's voice is depicted as a monolithic
entity, characterized by conformity and an unquestioning
acceptance of the government's rules and ideals. The dominant
narrative is controlled by the oppressive regime, which actively
suppresses any dissenting voices or ideas that may challenge its
authority. Books are banned and burned to eliminate conflicting
viewpoints, leaving society with a single, prescribed perspective.
The parlor walls and mindless entertainment further reinforce the
government's narrative, perpetuating a sense of homogeneity and
shallowness among the population. The society's voice becomes a
collective echo of the government's propaganda, devoid of
individuality and critical thinking. Genuine human connections are
eroded, and people become emotionally disconnected from one
another, lost in the sea of conformity. The absence of diverse
voices and independent thought serves as a powerful reminder of
the dangers of a society that sacrifices intellectual freedom and
authentic human connections for the sake of control and
uniformity.
Attitudes are broadly positive, negative or neutral. Characters and
authors will express attitudes in a text through idea and themes,
characters, plot, setting and atmosphere, tone, dialogue and other
written and/or visual features. Attitudes can be open-minded or involve
prejudice and stereotyping.
Values are often expressed by attitudes. Values are important and lasting
beliefs or ideals of an individual or shared by a culture or group. They are
guiding principles that dictate behaviour and can help people understand
the difference between right and wrong, what is desirable or
undesirable. Particular values and attitudes can be endorsed or
challenged in a text. Readers and audiences are also positioned to
respond to values and attitudes in a text.
In "Fahrenheit 451," society values conformity and
suppresses knowledge and independent thought. Shallow
entertainment and pleasure-seeking replace genuine
human connections, leading to emotional emptiness and
fear of questioning authority. The oppressive regime
perpetuates complacency and discourages critical
thinking, creating a dystopian world devoid of intellectual
freedom and genuine human interactions.
Perspectives may remain constant or be influenced or changed over time.
Perspectives in a text can vary, so consider:
 Perspectives of specific characters or groups within a text.
 Perspective of the author or director or speaker.
 Perspective of audiences: consider how different contexts of
production and reception influence perspective and interpretation.
In "Fahrenheit 451," the perspectives of society are multifaceted,
encompassing both conformists and dissenters. The majority falls into the
category of conformists, valuing unquestioning adherence to the
government's rules and prioritizing shallow entertainment and pleasure-
seeking over critical thinking and intellectual pursuits. Complacency and
fear of challenging authority drive them to suppress individuality and
embrace a life devoid of genuine human connections, leading to
emotional emptiness. On the other hand, the dissenters represent a
minority who question the oppressive norms and seek intellectual
freedom. Characters like Clarisse McClellan and Guy Montag embody this
perspective, valuing knowledge, curiosity, and meaningful human
connections over mindless distractions. They yearn for a deeper
understanding of the world and refuse to accept the government's
narrative blindly. Through their actions, the dissenters strive to inspire
others to break free from the constraints of conformity and embrace their
individuality and independent thought. The clash between these two
perspectives serves as a central theme, illustrating the dangers of
suppressing diverse voices and underscoring the importance of embracing
one's unique perspective to preserve intellectual freedom and genuine
human connections.
 The autocratic Establishment
TASK: Relate each of the ATAR concepts below to the character above and include
evidence to support your ideas. Continue on another page if necessary.
In "Fahrenheit 451," the autocratic establishment is depicted as a
dominating force controlling society, suppressing knowledge and
independent thought.
The Firemen, among them Guy Montag, serve as the enforcers of
this autocratic regime, assigned with the task of ruthlessly burning
books and silencing dissent. Fear is effectively used as a tool to
keep citizens in line, discouraging any rebellion or expression of
individuality. Technological advancements, like the Mechanical
Hound, act as instruments of surveillance, ensuring constant
monitoring and controlling any signs of rebellion. The autocratic
regime devalues intellectual freedom and human connection,
creating a dystopian society lacking critical thinking and genuine
emotions. This portrayal serves as a cautionary tale about the
dangers of unchecked power and the importance of preserving
individuality and free exchange of ideas in a democratic society.
Voice can relate to:
 Characters in narratives, including short stories and films, from first
person point of view, dialogue, action, thoughts, specific attributes,
tone of voice, attitudes and values etc. Think of tone to describe
voice: authoritative, serious, flippant and dismissive, urgent, excited
and eager, arrogant, voice of experience etc.
 A third person narrator can also have a voice and reflect the author
and their beliefs, values, concerns or contextual influences. Authorial
intrusion can directly address the audience.
 Voice can also relate to voiceovers in film, the voice of a speaker of a
TED talk or speech. Also consider tone of voice and verbal features to
convey ideas, values and attitudes etc.
 Voice may change as a speaker/character develops their ideas or as
character develops over time.
In the autocratic establishment depicted in "Fahrenheit 451," the
concept of voice is severely suppressed and controlled. The
oppressive regime exercises strict censorship, banning and
burning books to eradicate any knowledge or ideas that might
challenge its authority. As a result, individual voices are silenced,
and conformity becomes the norm. Within this society, citizens
are discouraged from expressing dissent or questioning the
government's agenda, using fear and surveillance mechanisms to
deter any form of resistance. The autocratic establishment's iron-
fisted grip stifles free expression and critical thinking, leaving the
populace devoid of diverse perspectives and genuine human
connections. It becomes a society where independent thought is
deemed dangerous and intellectual freedom is a rare commodity.
The absence of individual voices serves as a stark reminder of the
dangers of unchecked power and the importance of preserving
the right to express one's unique perspective in a truly democratic
society.
Attitudes are broadly positive, negative or neutral. Characters and
authors will express attitudes in a text through idea and themes,
characters, plot, setting and atmosphere, tone, dialogue and other
written and/or visual features. Attitudes can be open-minded or involve
prejudice and stereotyping.
Values are often expressed by attitudes. Values are important and lasting
beliefs or ideals of an individual or shared by a culture or group. They are
guiding principles that dictate behaviour and can help people understand
the difference between right and wrong, what is desirable or
undesirable. Particular values and attitudes can be endorsed or
challenged in a text. Readers and audiences are also positioned to
respond to values and attitudes in a text.
In "Fahrenheit 451," the autocratic establishment's values revolve
around control, suppression, and conformity. They place great
importance on maintaining absolute control over information and ideas.
Banning and burning books serves as a powerful tool to eliminate any
knowledge that might challenge their authority or promote independent
thinking among the populace. The establishment's obsession with
control is further manifested in their use of technology for surveillance
and suppression of dissenting voices, instilling fear in the citizens and
deterring any resistance. Furthermore, the autocratic regime highly
values conformity as a means to maintain order and unity. They seek to
create a society where individuality is stifled, and people unquestioningly
adhere to the prescribed narrative. Any deviation from the norm is seen
as a threat, and those who dare to think differently or question the
government's agenda are harshly punished. Attitudes within the
autocratic establishment are characterized by a sense of superiority and
entitlement. They view themselves as the rightful authorities, possessing
the knowledge and wisdom to dictate what is best for the society. This
arrogance leads them to dismiss opposing viewpoints and suppress any
ideas that challenge their status quo.
Perspectives may remain constant or be influenced or changed over time.
Perspectives in a text can vary, so consider:
 Perspectives of specific characters or groups within a text.
 Perspective of the author or director or speaker.
 Perspective of audiences: consider how different contexts of
production and reception influence perspective and interpretation.
Perspective of a member of the autocratic establishment:
As a member of the autocratic establishment, their
perspective revolves around the core principles of power,
control, and stability. They firmly believe that a centralized
authority and a strong leadership are essential to maintain
order and prevent chaos within society or the organization.
The hierarchical structure of the establishment ensures
efficient decision-making and implementation of policies,
fostering consistency and unity. They are wary of
significant changes, as they perceive them as potential
threats to the established order and their position of
influence. Loyalty and obedience to the leadership are of
utmost importance to them, as any dissent or criticism
could be seen as disloyalty to the establishment and its
values.