From the given options for the assessment question, the statement that best expresses the author's critique of this society is: Forcing uniformity on people doesn't result in equality, but rather causes conflict and unhappiness. Option B is the right choice.
This aligns with the central theme of the story, which suggests that the extreme measures taken by the government to enforce equality lead to negative consequences, including conflict and unhappiness among the citizens.
The author is critiquing the notion that absolute equality, achieved through suppressing individual differences, does not result in a harmonious and fulfilling society.
The tragic event involving George and Hazel Bergeron's son, Harrison, being taken away adds a layer of complexity to the narrative.
It suggests that even in the pursuit of equality, there are sacrifices and losses that raise questions about the true cost of such a society.
In summary, Kurt Vonnegut's "Harrison Bergeron" explores the consequences of extreme attempts to enforce equality, emphasizing that true equality cannot be achieved through suppressing individual differences.
The story raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of equality and the potential pitfalls of a society that sacrifices individuality for the sake of uniformity.
The passage you provided is an excerpt from the short story "Harrison Bergeron" by Kurt Vonnegut. The story is set in the year 2081 in a society that has achieved equality by handicapping individuals who excel in various aspects, such as intelligence, strength, and beauty.
Option B is the right choice.
Question:
Kurt Vonnegut (1922-2007) was an American writer best known for his novel Slaughterhouse-Five. In this short story, he describes a society where all citizens have been made equal.
As you read, take notes on how the society's efforts to make everyone equal has impacted its citizens.The year was 2081, and everybody was finally equal. They weren't only equal before God and the law. They were equal every which way. Nobody was smarter than anybody else. Nobody was better looking than anybody else. Nobody was stronger or quicker than anybody else. All this equality was due to the 211th, 212th, and 213th Amendments to the Constitution, and to the unceasing vigilance of agents of the United States Handicapper General.
Some things about living still weren't quite right, though. April for instance, still drove people crazy by not being springtime. And it was in that clammy month that the H-G men took George and Hazel Bergeron's fourteen-year-old son, Harrison, away.
Assessment Questions
1. Which statement best expresses the author's critique of this society?
A. The government should encourage everyone to hide their differences in order to have a more peaceful society.
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B. Forcing uniformity on people doesn't result in equality, but rather causes conflict and unhappiness.
C. Attempting to achieve complete equality will only result in widespread conflict.
D. People don't realize how important individuality is until their differences are taken away.