Character Analysis – “Harrison Bergeron”
For this assignment you are to collaborate, or work together, with your classmates in your “table groups” to create a
visual representation of a character from the short story “Harrison Bergeron.” The purpose of this assignment is for you to
look at characters in the story through a critical lens. So it is important that you look beyond the physical attributes, or
characteristics, of a character and focus on the internal motivations (what makes the character tick) for the characters’ actions
as well.
For this project you will be given an art kit along with one sheet of butcher paper. The butcher paper is to be
divided into four quadrants. Just leave enough space on the bottom to include the final statement. You may only choose from
this list of characters: Harrison, George, or Hazel.
How would other
characters view him/her?
How does this character
view himself /herself?
Physical Handicaps
imposed on the character?
Things this character
excels in.
Explain the role you character has in the plot of the story. How does
their existence relate to other characters within the story?
In the middle of this graphic you are to create an image of the character reflecting the character’s inner self in
contrast to the way society views him.
Step 1 Choose a character to become.
Step 2 On a separate sheet of notebook paper create four columns.
Step 3 In the first column, list ten adjectives that would explain how other characters in this society feel about
your character.
Step 4 In the second column, list ten adjectives that explain how this character feels to you. (See adjective
handout on the back of this handout)
Step 5 In the third column, list what handicaps are placed on your character.
Step 6 In the fourth column list the things you feel your character would excel in. This will require you to look
into the text and make some inferences, or an educated guess.
Step 7 Now you are to create well written sentences for each item on your list and include them in the
appropriate place on your butcher paper. (see above)
Step 8 Now draw your graphic in the center of the sheet showing your character half handicapped, as created by
the Handicapper General, and half without, as nature had intended it. Sort of like a split personality.
Step 9 Lastly, you are to take a look at your character and determine how he or she interacts with other
characters within the story. What is their purpose for being in the story? What does he or she contribute to the
plot? How does he or she interact with other characters within the story?
Final Thoughts
These projects will be presented to the class towards the end of the period, if time permits;
otherwise, presentations will begin tomorrow. To receive credit, you must stand with your class when they
present their analysis of the character. This is going to be a presentation so please remember to be creative
and write clear and large letters. You will be individually graded on your presentation using the “Oral
Presentation Rubric.”