Muzaurieta
Fahrenheit 451
Motif Study
Directions:
As we study this novel, we will record and respond to key quotes associated with a few of the motifs in the book. Everyone will look for and work with the major motifs. In addition, your table will be assigned to two smaller motifs.
Watch for quotes as you read Part One, and mark the passages with a sticky or copy them into your notes. Your group will add them to a running list in class and will also respond to them in writing.
Keep in mind that the novel has many more motifs that are not listed here. Try to identify them as you read—what are the repeated ideas and concepts explored in this novel?
MAJOR MOTIF: FIRE
Look for all and any references to fire including:
- candles
- house fires
- campfires
MAJOR MOTIF: EMOTION
Look for all and any references to:
- Happiness
- Emptiness/Numbness
- Being Upset/Bothered/Inconvenienced
Additional Group Motif: Emotion
- Table 1: Screaming and/or Crying
- Table 2: Laughter
- Table 3: Love and/or Lack of love
- Table 4: Guilt
- Table 5: Splitting into 2 people/being 2 people
Additional Group Motif: Variety pack
- Table 1: War and/or Jet bombers
- Table 2: Speed
- Table 3: Death
- Table 4: Dust
- Table 5: Barriers and walls (may be metaphorical)
Muzaurieta
Fahrenheit 451
Motif Study part 2
Previously, you have recorded all of the Part 1 and 2 motif quotes on colored paper. Now, it is time to record all the Part 3 quotes, write an analysis of what you have found, and design a poster. Requirements are listed below.
The Written Analysis
Format:
Single space
12 pt. font, 1 inch margin
Heading:
All group names, 1 line each
Muzaurieta, Period
Date
Fahrenheit 451 Motif Study
Paragraph 1: Meaning and effect of 1st motif
Paragraph 2: Meaning and effect of 2nd motif
Paragraph 3: Connect the two motifs
Poster
Size:
At least two pieces of paper, but as many as you like
Include:
- Title with the two motifs
- Quotes – Organize them somehow, must have page numbers
- “That’s my definition anyhow” (83).
- “…why you came here?” (82). Same for exclamation point.
- Pictures – of motifs; may be symbolic; may be drawn, print-out or magazine cut-out