“Harrison Bergeron”
By Kurt Vonnegut Jr.
Discussion Questions
1. The more talented ballerinas are easy to spot because they carry more
weights. The more beautiful members of society have the most hideous
masks. Is it possible to make everyone equal? Explain. In what ways should
we be equal and in what ways is it better to be different from each other?
2. Harrison’s parents don’t seem as upset as one might expect knowing their
son was hauled off by the authorities. Why do you think that is? Is there
something about how this society works that would explain their behavior?
3. There seems to some negative consequences that go along with a society like
this. Let’s make an inference about one of the consequences. As the bulletin
comes on about Harrison, his picture is first upside down, then sideways and
it takes some time to get it right. What does this detail tell you about what
“equality” is costing this society?
4. Once the ballerina and Harrison are free of their handicaps, they spring into
the air and seem to almost superhuman. What do you think Vonnegut is
trying to say with this scene?
5. Why do you think Vonnegut has Harrison declare himself an emperor? He
also talks about making people barons and dukes if they do their best or show
courage. What is the significance of this?