Harrison Bergeron

by Kurt Vonnegut

Harrison Bergeron: Motifs 1 key example

Definition of Motif

A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the central themes of a book... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of related symbols, help develop the... read full definition
A motif is an element or idea that recurs throughout a work of literature. Motifs, which are often collections of... read full definition
Motifs
Explanation and Analysis—The Television:

In the Bergerons’ living room, the television has a continuous presence and is an important motif across "Harrison Bergeron."

The story begins with George and Hazel Bergeron watching television, but neither can remember what they have seen—something distressing, evidently, since Hazel is crying. The two watch a ballet performance and discuss many topics: the Handicapper General, being normal, their handicaps, and society. A sudden news bulletin interrupts the performance, and their son’s momentous uprising plays out before them on the screen—as does his assassination. The story ends with the television blacking out and the Bergerons, none the wiser to their son's death, speaking wistfully about “sad things.” This variety of images speaks to the pervasiveness of the television in the story.