Question

Guy Montag "wears his happiness like a mask" this is simile means that

Answer 1

The simile 'wears his happiness like a mask' suggests Guy Montag's happiness is only an outward display, not his real emotion, as it is a façade to cover up his true feelings in the novel 'Fahrenheit 451'.

Step-by-step explanation:

The phrase "wears his happiness like a mask" is a simile utilized to describe the character of Guy Montag from Ray Bradbury's novel Fahrenheit 451. This simile implies that Montag displays happiness outwardly, but it is not his genuine emotion—much like a mask is used to cover the real face. It suggests that Montag's apparent happiness is merely a façade meant to conceal his true feelings, which may include fear, discontent, or having a "bad conscience."

As evident in provided text snippets, masks are used to indicate pretense or hiding one's true self for varying reasons―be they cultural, as in the case of ceremonial rituals, or emotional, as a protective measure. This thematic element underscores the disparity between appearance and reality, accentuated through masks and clothing choices which enable individuals to navigate societal expectations and norms.

Answer 2

I would think that this means that he can use his happiness to hide his true face and emotions. He can put the mask on and appear happy to others, when really he is not. This acts like a mask because a mask makes your face look like something it isn't. Like on Halloween when you dress up, wearing a mask makes you look like what you desire to look like, not what you really are.