1. Shortly after Montag endures Beatty's lecture in Part Two, Montag voices his
opinion on the importance of reading. When Mildred has enough of Montag's
foolish and "antisocial" behavior, she cries: "Why should I read? What for?"
Montag's response is emotional, highly-charged, and critical. His speech is as
much for himself as it is for Millie. A second look at this speech reveals how
Montag is changing. In his response to Millie, Montag asks many questions, one
after the other, without pausing or giving Millie an opportunity to answer. These
rhetorical questions are asked not to obtain answers, but to make statements.
This activity gives you a chance to look at Montag's persuasive language and his
support of reading. You also see Montag's opposition to the current state of the
world (status quo).
Directions: In the chart below, record three rhetorical questions posed by
Montag. Explain the statement Montag makes by posing each question.
Rhetorical Question
Example: "Is it because we're having so much fun
at bome we've forgotten the world?
Statement
Example: No one is interested in or shows concern
about the war because they are too busy taking part
in superficial activities created by the government to
keep people titillated and bappy.