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