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Individuality In Fahrenheit 451 By Ray Bradbury

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In the novel, Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, the main character Guy Montag lives in a dystopian world where books are banned, and knowledge in general is looked down upon. Due to his occupation as a fireman, his job is to destroy any illegal books found within his city. This causes him to be very much a rule-follower, and compliant with any form of authority. But, after meeting a girl who questions many of these societal norms, Montag begins to shift from having an obedient, acquiescent personality to becoming a leader. This development in Montag’s character reflects the overall theme of this story: knowledge and individuality allows for one to have a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Prior to Montag’s journey of self-discovery, Montag …show more content…

This was due to the authorities of his city attempting to capture him, after they realized the crimes he had committed. Already, this is a huge step in Montag’s journey, as this event is unspeakably out of character for the upstanding citizen that was originally Guy Montag. He is willingly leaving his entire life behind, for the sake of the knowledge he has gained and wants to continue to collect. His development doesn’t quite stop there though, as the ultimate ending to his development in this book happens in the final pages, after he has banded with others like him and is headed towards a new life: “Montag felt the slow stir of words, the slow simmer. And when it came his turn, what could he say, what could he offer on a day like this, to make the trip a little easier? To everything, there is a season. Yes. A time to break down, and a time to build up. Yes. A time to keep silence and a time to speak. Yes, all that.” (157) Not only has Montag defied his former self by becoming educated, he wants to use this knowledge to inspire others and become a leader. Montag was constantly a follower before this change, and This quality of leadership allows Montag to seek the best life for himself, and fulfill something worthy of his true potential. Ultimately, this change reflects back on the theme of the story, “knowledge and individuality allows for one to have a

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