V for Vendetta
http://vforvendetta.warnerbros.com/trailer.html. Set your volume at a reasonable level and record notes about your thoughts on the study guide.
If the link above is broken, you can try the Apple: V for Vendetta website: http://www.apple.com/trailers/wb/v_for_vendetta/.
- A voice in the trailer says, “The truth is there is something terribly wrong with this country.” What seems to be wrong with the country depicted in the film? How is it a dystopia?
1984
Read the last three chapters of 1984. As you read, remember to use the study guide to record your thoughts about important ideas in the text.
- As the first chapter opens, where is Winston Smith? How long has he been there? How has he been treated?
- When Winston writes “two and two make five,” what does this indicate about his state of mind?
- When Winston cries out for Julia, why is this a problem?
- How does Winston feel about Big Brother? Why is this a problem?
- To Winston, what is the worst thing in the world? What does this represent for Winston?
- What does it mean when Winston says, “Do it to Julia”?
- When Winston meets Julia in the last chapter, why is there coldness and emptiness?
- At the end, Winston proclaims his love for Big Brother. Do you believe him?
“Harrison Bergeron”
Read “Harrison Bergeron” (http://www.tnellen.com/cybereng/harrison.html) using the study guide to monitor your understanding while you read.
- In the beginning of the story, the narrator states, “The year was 2081, and everybody was finally equal.” Does this seem like a good idea? Why or why not?
- Describe George and Hazel.
- What has happened to their son?
- What measures have been taken to promote equality in this place?
- Describe Harrison Bergeron. Why do you think he has been taken away from his mom and dad?
- Why do George and Hazel seem to be unable to comprehend what has happened to their son?
- What does this short story suggest about equality?