“Harrison Bergeron” Group Discussion Questions
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8.
Describe the state of the U.S. society as described in the first paragraph. How has “equality”
been achieved?
Why is competition and being different viewed as a bad thing in this society?
What is the “handicap” they talk about? What is its purpose?
Consider the characters of George and Hazel. Why isn’t Hazel handicapped and George is?
Consider the character of Harrison in terms of both his physical qualities and his personality
traits. Why is he considered a threat to society?
Look at the style the story is written in from the beginning. How is this style unique or different
compared to other short stories you’ve read? How does the style relate to the message of the
story?
How do George and Hazel react to the televised murder of their son? Why do you think they
react this way?
What do you consider to be the message (theme) of “Harrison Bergeron”? What leads you to
this understanding of the text?
“Harrison Bergeron” Group Discussion Questions
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Describe the state of the U.S. society as described in the first paragraph. How has “equality”
been achieved?
Why is competition and being different viewed as a bad thing in this society?
What is the “handicap” they talk about? What is its purpose?
Consider the characters of George and Hazel. Why isn’t Hazel handicapped and George is?
Consider the character of Harrison in terms of both his physical qualities and his personality
traits. Why is he considered a threat to society?
Look at the style the story is written in from the beginning. How is this style unique or different
compared to other short stories you’ve read? How does the style relate to the message of the
story?
How do George and Hazel react to the televised murder of their son? Why do you think they
react this way?
What do you consider to be the message (theme) of “Harrison Bergeron”? What leads you to
this understanding of the text?