Alex Cortez
Stanton
English 2
2/27/23
In the novel Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury. Guy Montag, a fireman whose job it is to not help put out fires but to start fires in any house that has books in it. He begins to question the truth of his work after meeting Clarisse, a free will teenage girl who shows him the true beauty of literature. Clarisse's presence in the novel serves to challenge the status quo and demonstrate the power of free thought. Her presence causes a shift in Guy Montag, leading him to resist the oppressive regime. Through her guidance, Montag comes to recognize the full power of knowledge and the greatness of literature, and eventually decides to betray his duty and work against the oppressive regime. Clarisse's influence in the novel is crucial in illuminating the importance of individual freedom and the power of knowledge.
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She introduces him to a new way of life that allows him to be rid of the oppressive society he is part of. This can be seen when Clarisse says, “Do you ever read any of the books you burn?” (5). This statement helps Montag to recognize how he is allowing himself to be controlled by the law and how it is keeping him from experiencing joy and freedom. Moreover, Clarisse encourages Guy to explore his own thoughts, asking him questions that challenge his set beliefs and make him think differently. This is evident when she asks Montag, “Are you happy?” (7). This makes Montag think about whether or not he is truly happy and what the source of his unhappiness would be, and think of other things to do in replace of those sources. Through these conversations, Clarisse helps Montag to challenge the law and free himself from the oppressive society he is part of by making him question what he really wants to do and be in