Final answer:
The title 'The Hunger Games' directly references the central event of the novel, symbolizes themes of survival, societal imbalance, and the struggles against an oppressive system, and metaphorically represents the literal and figurative hunger experienced by the characters.
Step-by-step explanation:
The title 'The Hunger Games' is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it directly references the brutal, gladiatorial competition at the center of the novel, where participants, or 'tributes', must fight to the death until only one remains. This title effectively captures the perilous nature of the games and serves as a hook to intrigue potential readers. Secondly, the title encapsulates larger themes within the book, such as survival, societal imbalances, and the stark contrast between the opulence of the ruling class and the desperation of the oppressed districts. The games themselves are a tool for control and entertainment, showcasing the extremes of capitalism and the commoditization of human life.
Furthermore, the word 'Hunger' in the title reflects the hunger for justice, freedom, and change that motivates the protagonist, Katniss, and the oppressed people of Panem. It also represents the literal hunger experienced by the poorer districts, making the stakes of the competition about more than just survival in the arena—it's about the survival of their families and communities, too. Lastly, by questioning literary features like the title, readers can deepen their understanding of the message the author, Suzanne Collins, intends to convey, thus aligning with the practice of literary analysis.