Harrison Bergeron

When Harrison breaks free of his “handicaps,” he promotes himself to Emperor. Merriam-Webster defines emperor as “the sovereign or supreme male monarch of an empire.” What does Harrison’s selection of this title communicate about his understanding of power? Be sure to connect your analysis to the theme of State Control.

Consider these points as you reflect on the text to answer the question.

• Who holds the power in this society before Harrison’s announcement? How is power wielded?
• How does Harrison wield his short-term power?
• Would this society be better off if Harrison remained its leader? Why or why not?
• How is this political title part of Vonnegut’s satire?
• What is Vonnegut communicating about institutional power?

Teaching Suggestion: Vonnegut’s choice of the word emperor is satirical. Consider discussing the connotations of this word (sovereign, all-powerful, corrupt, dictatorial, etc.) and connect the connotations to the broader messages of State Control.

You can also extend the discussion/analysis to include the story’s other major themes:

Arbitrary Justice: How is Harrison’s brief rebellion “justice”? How is or isn’t his death arbitrary justice? Is the handicapping system arbitrary justice?

Political Inaction: Harrison is far from politically passive in this story. What is Vonnegut communicating about political activism?