English 11

Short Stories

Harrison Bergeron

by Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.

Questions for Discussion

1. (a) What is the purpose of handicapping in sports?

(b) Why has handicapping become law in Bergeron’s community?

(c) Has this society improved as a result?

2. What parts of the story are the most exaggerated? What do you think was the author’s purpose in using exaggeration so extensively?

3. What do George and Hazel’s reactions at the end of the story reveal aboutthe quality of life in their society?

4. (a) What is the situational irony in this story? What would you expect a society to be like in which everyone is equal?

(b) What point do you think the author is making through the use of irony?

5. Would you prefer to live in a society where you are treated equally or a society where you are treated fairly? When might it be more advantageous to be treated equally instead of equitably, or vice-versa? Research the definition of each, describe the differences between the two, and explain your decision.

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