Kurt Vonnegut's Short Stories

4. Consider the character of Harrison in terms of both his physical qualities and personality traits. Why is he considered a threat to society?

“Harrison Bergeron” – Kurt Vonnegut, Jr. Reading Questions

Harrison Bergeron: Completely Equal

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The title character of "Harrison Bergeron," a fourteen-year-old who has been jailed for refusing to abide by his mental and physical handicaps. Harrison is now a young man who has escaped from prison. He is so intelligent and strong that he adapts to handicaps made for him. Harrison personifies the epitome of the human condition. He is intelligent, extremely strong, and good-looking. The state does not want the population to witness such excellence. They fear that Harrison will undermine their laws of forced equality. They fear that others might try to find their own individuality and potential.