Question

fahrenheit 451 – reading assignment 5
analysis questions for pages 67-76
start: beginning of part 2
end: the train vanished in its hole.
directions: answer each in complete sentences unless told otherwise. each will require at least 2 sentences to answer. write neatly and explain your ideas. use the question itself to craft your response.

1. explain the difference between the way that part 1 and part 2 begin. what is montag focusing on, on the first page of part 1 versus the first page of part 2? what has happened to him over the course of the novel so far?
2. what is the point about mildred focusing on herself and clarisse’s favorite subject not being herself?
3. to mildred’s credit, she’s correct, “books aren’t people” (69), technically. but, explain their importance and how they are figuratively people.
4. montag says, “maybe the books can get us half out of the cave.” explain this metaphor.
5. who does montag call, what does he ask him, and what is montag’s plan with the bible?
6. explain the metaphor of the “sieve” as illustrated on page 74.

Explanation:

Since the problem is about analyzing a literary work ("Fahrenheit 451"), the relevant subfield under Arts is Literature. Here is the answer for one of the questions, say question 1:

In Part 1, the beginning focuses on Montag's role as a fireman, enjoying the destruction of books, with his attention on the sensory experience of burning. In Part 2, the start has Montag more introspective, focusing on his thoughts about books and his changing perspective. Over the course of the novel so far, Montag has met Clarisse, which has made him question his society's values and his own role, leading to a shift from a book - burning enthusiast to a seeker of knowledge.

Answer:

In Part 1, Montag focuses on the act of burning books and the sensory thrill of his job as a fireman. In Part 2, he focuses on his internal thoughts about books and his changing worldview. So far, Montag has met Clarisse, which has caused him to question his society and his role, moving from someone who enjoys burning books to someone who is curious about and values them.