The Sieve and the Sand

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The Sieve and the Sand

• Analyzing the Novel

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Foreshadowing

• Authors use foreshadowing to hint at future
  events in a novel. The external conflict of man
  vs. machine heightens between Montag and the
  Mechanical Hound in Part Two, and the eventual
  violent meeting and hunt is foreshadowed. As you
  complete this activity, make predictions about
  the Hounds programming and programmer and the
  resolution of the final clash.

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Directions Quote three passges that foreshadow
the eventual struggle between Montag and the
Mechanical Hound.

• Outside the front door, in the rain, a faint
  scratching. Montag froze. He saw Mildred thrust
  herself back to the wall and gasp.
• 2.
• 3.
• 4.

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Answer the following questions.

1. Who do you think programs the Hound and sends him
   out to investigate Montag? Why?
2. What effect does the Hound have on the plot of
   the novel?

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Rhetorical Questions

• Shortly after Montag endures Beattys lecture in
  Part One, Montag voices his opinion on the
  importance of reading. When Mildred has enough of
  Montags foolish and antisocial behavior, she
  cries, Why should I read? What for? Montags
  response is emotional, highly-charged, and
  critical. His speech is as much for himself as it
  is for Millie.

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• A second look at his speech reveals how Montag
  is changing. In his response to Millie, Montag
  asks many questions, one after the other, without
  pausing or giving Millie an opportunity to
  answer. These rhetorical questions are asked not
  to obtain answers, but to make statements.

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• This activity gives you a chance to look at
  Montags persuasive language and his support of
  reading. You also see his opposition to the
  current state of the world (status quo.)

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Directions Record three rhetorical questions
asked by Montag. Explain the statement Montag
makes by posing each question.
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Theme

• As Montag boards the subway, he describes a
  numbness that has crept over him. He wishes to
  return to his old self. As the scene progresses,
  he is disturbed by a radio jingle. Consider the
  reactions Montag and the other passengers have to
  the jingle. What central message (theme) is
  communicated throught the contrast of Montag to
  the other passengers?

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1. What is Montags numbness?
2. How does the analogy of the sieve and the sand
   relate to this scene?
3. How are the passengers on the subway
   characterized? Use evidence to support your
   answer.
4. How are Montags actions contrasted to those of
   the passengers?

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• 5. Whose behavior is considered antisocial
  according to the Fahrenheit society? Why?
• 6. Whose behavior is considered antisocial
  according to your ideals? Why?
• 7. What is Ray Bradburys message about the
  dangers of a society that does not think?

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Example Is it because were having so much fun at home that weve forgotten the world? No one is interested in or shows concern about the war because they are too busy taking part in superficial activities created by the govt to keep people tittillated and happy.