Social And Cultural Norms In The Hunger Games By Suzanne Collins

881 Words4 Pages

Dystopian literature often displays a world in which society has become the antagonist, a portrayal of power and oppression over its citizens. This is shown in Suzanne Collins's The Hunger Games, in which the oppressive culture of Panem, governed by the all-powerful Capitol, subjects its citizens in districts to brutal control. This cruelty emphasizes the evident difference between the privilege of the Capitol and the poor districts, emphasizing deep social and political divides. This essay will therefore examine how the societal structures and cultural norms of Panem serve as the primary antagonists in determining the lives and fates of its citizens. Despite the oppressive culture, acts of rebellion run throughout Panem in The Hunger Games. …show more content…

Katniss explains, "Yes, they have to be victorious." Without a victor, the whole thing would blow up in the Gamemakers’ faces”(Collins 329). In doing so, the bravery and determination of the characters show that by denying the oppressive norms set out by the Capitol, it serves to create a reason behind the inspiration of wider rebellion and challenging change in Panem. Such acts of defiance not only serve to break the Capitol's grip on the other districts but also symbolize the character's refusal to be turned into simple pawns within their oppressive system. Katniss and Peeta are ready to break through the rules imposed upon them by the Capitol. This sends out a strong message of rebellion to evoke hope and togetherness within the districts. Briefly, this action stirs up wider resistance movements, fanning the flames of change and challenging the authority of the Capitol. The Hunger Games are a clear demonstration of oppression in Panem, which was formed to enforce the dominance of the Capitol. Each district is made to provide two tributes to those who are fighting to their deaths as a reminder of how the Capitol can wield its