1. Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
Part I
“The Hearth and The Salamander”

2. Mythological References
The Hearth
The Salamander
The Phoenix
To what extent are these images and allusions relevant so far within the context of the novel?
Why is each ironic?

3. The Hearth Reference to the Greek Goddess of the Hearth, Hestia
Associated with the “homefire,” a fireplace, the heart of the home and family
Why relevant?
Why ironic?

4. The Salamander A mythological “fire lizard” Why relevant? Why ironic?
Thought to be FIRE RESISTANT
Also believed to have the ability to PUT OUT FIRES
Believed to be “born in fire”
Why relevant?
Why ironic?

5. The Phoenix A mythological bird which lives 500 years.
According to myth, a phoenix dies in flames but rises from the ashes.
Why relevant?
Why ironic?

6. Role of Technology
Montag’s television includes headphones called “seashells.”
The “wall-to-wall circuit” allows Mildred to enter the “play,” and therefore the television programming.
What are some other examples of technology you have noticed in the novel so far?

7. Role of Technology, continued
How does the technology of the novel compare to our current technology?
In the first pages of the novel, to what extent does technology improve the quality of life for Montag and his wife Mildred?
Does technology ALWAYS improve the quality of our lives? When might it be a detriment?

8. Main Characters: Montag Clarisse Mildred Beatty
Describe each character listed above.
What motivates each at this point in the novel? What is each character’s objective?
For each character, list a properly cited supporting quote and explain its significance.

9. Themes Take a look at Captain Beatty’s monologue on pp. 57-59.
According to Beatty, why are books no longer relevant in society?
According to Beatty, in what way does burning books protect society?
To what extent are Beatty’s observations true about current society?