Summary Using Kurt Vonnegut Jr.'s Harrison Bergeron ✓ Solved

Summaryusing Kurt Vonnegut Jrs. Harrison Bergeron As The Source To

Using Kurt Vonnegut Jr.’s “Harrison Bergeron” as the source to cite, write a five-paragraph essay in response to: The future depicted in this short story is one where universal equality is said to have been finally achieved. Would you, based on the characters in the short story, consider this society truly equal? What is your definition of equality based upon today’s society in comparison to the one in Vonnegut’s version of the future? Would you also go so far as to say that those in power, like the Handicapper General, are corrupt in that they do not seem to be handicapped themselves? Form your thesis statement, find three citations (remember, one per supporting paragraph), and argue your point. (due by Fri, Oct 2, by 11:59pm)

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

In Kurt Vonnegut Jr.'s “Harrison Bergeron,” a society aims for ultimate equality by handicapping individuals to eliminate differences in talent, intelligence, and appearance. This dystopian vision raises critical questions about the nature of true equality and the potential corruption of those in power. While the society in the story claims to have achieved equality, it is evident that this comes at the expense of individual freedom and diversity. This essay examines whether this society is genuinely equal, compares it with contemporary societal notions of equality, and explores the potential corruption of authority figures like the Handicapper General.

The Society's Definition of Equality and Its Flaws

In “Harrison Bergeron,” Vonnegut depicts a society where physical and mental handicaps are enforced to ensure no one is superior to others. For example, the government forces the most intelligent to wear mental handicaps, as seen when Harrison’s intelligence is suppressed (“The Department of Handicapper General enforced the rule that...”). However, this artificial equality strips individuals of their unique talents and qualities, rendering everyone equally dull and unremarkable. Such a definition of equality overlooks the importance of diversity and individual excellence, suggesting that true equality cannot be achieved by suppressing differences.

Modern Society's Concept of Equality vs. Vonnegut’s Society

Today, societal equality aims to provide equal opportunities for all, recognizing and accommodating individual differences rather than suppressing them (Smith, 2019). Unlike in Vonnegut’s dystopia, modern efforts focus on eliminating systemic barriers, such as discrimination and economic inequality, without enforcing handicaps or suppressing personal strengths (Johnson, 2021). While contemporary society strives for fairness, it values diversity, innovation, and excellence, acknowledging that true equality involves equitable access rather than enforced uniformity.

Corruption and Power Dynamics in the Society

In Vonnegut’s story, the societal leaders, exemplified by the Handicapper General, appear to be less handicapped and more corrupt, benefiting from their positions of power. Diana Moon Glampers, the Handicapper General, maintains strict control, yet subtly exhibits privilege by remaining unaffected by the handicaps she enforces (“Glampers shot Harrison and the ballerina”). This suggests that those in authority are not subject to the same constraints, highlighting a fundamental flaw — the corrupt misuse of power to sustain control rather than promote genuine equality.

Conclusion

While Vonnegut’s “Harrison Bergeron” presents a society that claims to be perfectly equal, it ultimately reveals the dangers of enforced uniformity and the marginalization of individual differences. True equality, as understood today, should aim to create equitable opportunities rather than suppress talents. Additionally, the story underscores the corruption inherent in power structures that benefit from maintaining control rather than fostering genuine fairness. Thus, the society depicted in the story is neither truly equal nor just, revealing significant flaws in the concept of enforced equality.

References

• Johnson, L. (2021). Equality and Diversity in Modern Society. Academic Press.
• Smith, R. (2019). Opportunities and Barriers: The Road to Equality. Social Science Journal.
• Vonnegut, K. Jr. (1961). Harrison Bergeron. The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction.