Harrison Essay: Individual Vs. Society

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The conflict in this short story is fairly complex. It can probably be categorized as a person vs society conflict, due to Harrison defying the ‘normal’ of the society. Harrison defies the norm by being remarkably strong and intelligent. Any handicaps he has are useless, and this means he is dangerous to the government. This is shown in the story when he, “...tore the straps of his handicap harness like wet tissue paper, tore straps guaranteed to support five thousand pounds (Vonnegut 72).” He escapes after that, starting the climax of the story. The climax is when he and his Empress are dancing, and then when the Handicapper General enters and shoots them down. Harrison is rebelling against society, using his outstanding smarts and strength.

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