Harrison Bergeron

The narrator notes that “equality was due to the [...] unceasing vigilance of the agents of the United States Handicapper General” (18), who derive their power from the Constitution. The first instance in which the Handicapper General exercises this power is when the H-G men take Harrison Bergeron away. Later it is revealed that Harrison was imprisoned for “plotting to overthrow the government” (22). After his escape, he declares himself Emperor and exercises control with violence. Soon afterward, Glampers shoots Harrison and the ballet dancer.

Both states, the United States in 2081 and Harrison’s Empire, exercise power through violence. The Handicapper General does so by imprisoning and killing dissidents; Harrison does so by abusing the musicians. Violence is a tool of the state for maintaining power, yet it is not the only form of coercion. Threats of violence, broadcast violence, and physical restraints are used to maintain power. The Handicapper General uses television to spread fear of Harrison and encourage viewers to “regard [him] as extremely dangerous” (22). Television sedates George and Hazel. They never question the state. The Handicapper General kills their son on television. The only time either character leaves the screen is when George gets up to grab a beer.