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Fahrenheit 451: Book Of Ecclesiastes And Job

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In his novel Fahrenheit 451, Ray Bradbury directly references to the Bible, specifically the books of Ecclesiastes and Job, to enhance the theme of the plot line with the similar messages being brought out by these two works of literature. It is important that the book Montag memorized partially was the Book of Ecclesiastes because of the powerful impact its message could have on society. Granger says to Montag, “‘You are the Book of Ecclesiastes’” (144). The message in the Book of Ecclesiastes focuses on how people should not focus on worldly possessions, and if they do, they will end up feeling empty and unhappy. The society created by Bradbury in the novel is only pleased with immediate responses that will end up leaving them feeling empty, just as the words of Ecclesiastes could …show more content…

The more the people heard the words of Ecclesiastes, the more they would understand how they have been putting their faith and focus on the wrong things. It is relevant that Bradbury references the Book of Job because it ties into the thematic meaning of the novel, further explaining how it is important to focus on the right thing. Bradbury refers to The Book of Job when Faber says offers to read to Montag as he sleeps because, “‘You retain knowledge even when you’re sleeping’” (89). Vonegut uses this specific book because it explains how even though Job lost all his earthly possessions and suffered greatly while on earth, he still stood strong in his faith. This relates to the theme of Fahrenheit 451 because it explains how earthly possessions are not necessary in life if you place your focus on the correct things, just as the Book of Ecclesiastes also clearly states. In addition to this, Montag can also relate to Job because he too will soon lose everything in his life, but he will still manage to keep his focus on what he values in life now:

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