Harrison Bergeron by Kurt Vonnegut - Essay Example

In “Harrison Bergeron,” Vonnegut tries to convince the reader that the world with full equality we dream about so much is not so ideal. Moreover, it can even be dangerous for people. In order to achieve equality, the people have to hide their advantages, certain traits of their personality not to be punished by the government. The United States turned into a country of stupid people who first of all are deprived of freedom. “I think I’d make a good Handicapper General.”

“Good as anybody else,” said George. “Who knows better’n I do what normal is?” said Hazel” (Vonnegut). Certainly, all that is happening in the story is much overstated, but the idea that appeared in Vonnegut’s head in the 20th century is still relevant. The main hero, a young man Harrison Bergeron, the criminal for the government, escaped from the prison. He is not afraid to express his opinion, because he is still a “human”, not a machine with a number all the citizens already turned into. He is very handsome, brave, and intelligent, thus he wants to have opportunities to realize his potential and refuse to follow the orders of the government. Thus he hesitates and wants to make other people hesitate: “The minute people start cheating on laws, what do you think happens to society?” . . . . A siren was going off in [George’s] head. “Reckon it’d fall all apart,” said Hazel. “What would?” said George blankly.

“Society,” said Hazel uncertainly. “Wasn’t that what you just said?” “Who knows?” said George ” (Vonnegut). Undoubtedly, the whole story is based on the main hero image namely of his contact with the surrounding. If to look at him carefully, one is possible to notice that his actions are not full of courage, he is not very clever, not very handsome, but he did not give up in contrast to the rest of the citizens. During the 5 minutes of his triumph, Harrison managed to make people listen to him and understand his ideas, making them hesitate, believe…

“Even as I stand here—” he bellowed, “crippled, hobbled, sickened—I am a greater ruler than any man who ever lived! Now watch me become what I can become!” (Vonnegut). But is it possible to change anything? Unfortunately, it is not possible. Read More