Question

In the context of the book "Fahrenheit 451," as Mildred and Montag read the books, Montag begins to wonder why Clarisse was so different, and Mildred refuses to engage in the discussion. Why do you think Mildred refuses to talk about people who are dead?

a) She is afraid of Montag's reaction.
b) She is uncomfortable discussing deep topics.
c) She is indifferent to Clarisse's uniqueness.
d) She wants to avoid the topic of books.

Answer 1

Mildred refuses to discuss Clarisse and other deep topics because of the society's discouragement of individuality and reflection, and her inclination to conform to superficial norms, which includes avoiding controversial subjects like books.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the context of the book "Fahrenheit 451," Mildred refuses to talk about people who are dead, including Clarisse, because the society they live in discourages deep thinking and emotional connections. Mildred's refusal to engage in the discussion with Montag likely stems from a combination of a societal-induced apathy toward individuality and deep topics (b), her comfort in conforming to the superficial norms of her society, as well as a potential avoidance of the controversial subject of books (d). Unlike Clarisse, who was curious and inquisitive about the world, Mildred is deeply entrenched in the shallow, media-saturated society that condemns the type of reflective thinking Clarisse exemplified.