How does Montag's internal conflict evolve
throughout Fahrenheit 451?
Montag's internal conflict is central to the plot of Fahrenheit 451. At the
beginning of the novel, Montag is content with his job as a fireman and his life
with his wife, Mildred. However, as he encounters different people, including
Clarisse and Faber, Montag begins to question the legality and morality of
burning books. This internal conflict becomes more pronounced as Montag
begins to read books and becomes more educated about the world around
him.
Montag's internal conflict evolves from confusion and uncertainty to a certainty
that his society is flawed and oppressive. For example, when Mildred
overdoses on sleeping pills, Montag realizes how empty and superficial his life
has been up to this point. He begins to see the value in books and knowledge
and becomes motivated to take actions to protect them.
As Montag's internal conflict comes to a head, he experiences moments of
intense fear and anxiety, especially when he's being chased by the
Mechanical Hound and when he joins the group of rebels. However, Montag
also experiences moments of clarity and conviction, such as when he realizes
that the fireman's job is not to put out fires but to start them.
Overall, Montag's internal conflict is a powerful tool used by Bradbury to
explore themes of censorship, knowledge, and individuality. By showing
Montag's evolution, Bradbury ultimately argues that the suppression of
knowledge is the greatest threat to humanity.
References:
Bradbury, R. (1953). Fahrenheit 451. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster.