Ignorance In Fahrenheit 451

Words: 1063
Pages: 5

Although nearly every person has a different specific definition of knowledge, it is generally accepted that knowledge and ignorance contradict each other in nearly every way possible. The theme of ignorance vs. knowledge appears many times in Fahrenheit 451. Ignorance is depicted by a few of the characters, such as Mildred and Captain Beatty along with the entire dystopian society. Ignorance developed in their society due to increase in governmental power and its desire to have control over the people, so the government continued to misinform the populace throughout the years. However, knowledge and independent thought still remain in society. Montag fights for the right to express himself and acquire information. Likewise, Fahrenheit 451 is a story that shows the conflict of ignorance vs. knowledge such as burning books that symbolize knowledge, the dystopian society, and Montag’s realization of superficiality, and his scheme to overthrow the status quo.
“Books aren’t people. You read and I look all around, but there isn’t anybody!”
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knowledge is presented many times in Fahrenheit 451. Society supports ignorance and keeps the public eye covered from learning anything contentious. The books represent knowledge, and the dystopia promotes ignorance and sameness by burning books. Knowledge is shown through Montag’s realization of ignorance and society’s suppression of individuality and his act of overcoming ignorance and maintaining knowledge. Bradbury relays the message that knowing the harsh reality of the world is better than living with superficial happiness in ignorance. Once books were burned a new generation emerged, and it lead to ignorance and oblivion to the greater things of life. In the novel it was typical to be depressed and not uncommon to hear of suicides. Fahrenheit 451 teaches a lesson that without books maintaining knowledge is difficult, and without knowledge citizens remain miserable without realizing