65.4k views
2 votes
What did Montag do to Beatty and the mechanical hound? Do you think that Montag's actions were justified? Why?

A) Montag killed Beatty and disabled the mechanical hound. His actions were justified as acts of self-defense and rebellion against a repressive regime.
B) Montag apologized to Beatty and repaired the mechanical hound. His actions were justified to avoid trouble.
C) Montag turned Beatty and the mechanical hound into authorities. His actions were justified to maintain order.
D) Montag ignored Beatty and the mechanical hound. His actions were justified to protect his own safety.

User Jbaldwin
by
7.6k points

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

Montag killed Beatty and disabled the mechanical hound as acts of self-defense and rebellion in 'Fahrenheit 451'. Justification of his actions depends on one's perspective on self-defense and resistance to oppressive regimes.

Step-by-step explanation:

In Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury, Montag killed Beatty and disabled the mechanical hound. This drastic action took place in the context of a dystopian society where books and intellectual freedom were outlawed. Montag's actions could be seen as acts of self-defense and rebellion against a repressive regime. Beatty, the fire chief, had become a direct threat to Montag's life, intending to arrest Montag and destroy his hidden collection of books. In a moment of intense confrontation, Montag chose to kill Beatty with a flamethrower. Shortly after, to escape capture, he also disabled the mechanical hound, a robotic enforcer used to track down and incapacitate dissenters. Whether Montag's actions were justified is a complex question that involves considering the value of human life, the right to self-defense, and the ethical implications of rebelling against an oppressive system. Some argue that his actions were necessary for his survival and as a stand against tyranny, while others might contend that violence cannot be justified, even in response to oppression.

User Alfredo Di Napoli
by
8.5k points