Montag’s Development "Power does not corrupt." Fear corrupts. perhaps the fear of a loss of power" -John Steinbeck. Individualism is necessary in any society because it enhances creativity and permits society to innovate. Without it, society would crumble, and people would forget their potential as human beings. Sometimes, the only way a society will change is through rebellion because there is great power in the absence of fear, and with that comes the ability to change societal "norms." Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451 highlights how Guy Montag, the protagonist and main character, learns a new perspective that allows him to take action on his beliefs. The book chronicles his life, set in a futuristic USA where books are banned and firemen burn …show more content…
After this, Montag begins secretly stealing books as his life changes, and he learns how oppressive society has become with no emphasis on critical thinking. As the story develops, Montag makes a difficult decision on whether he should conform to society or establish his beliefs and revolt. Ultimately, he meets and joins a group of rebels working on spreading the important ideas again. Guy Montag's character development profoundly contributes to the novel's exploration of individualism and rebellion against society's restrictive norms through his experiences with other people and his job. At the story's onset, Montag meets his inquisitive neighbor, Clarisse McClellan, who leads him to question his societal purpose. “Are you happy?” (Bradbury 7) is the question Clarisse asks as she says goodbye on the first night they meet. Montag immediately says yes, but later on reconsiders it with more thought. This question is important to Montag’s development because it awakens him from his intellectual slumber. He realizes he doesn’t find true happiness in burning books. This leads him to question his role as a