Topic > Theme of individuality in Harrison Bergeron - 805

That character is Harrison Bergeron himself. Some evidence of his connection to the theme comes when a character says, "Harrison Bergeron, fourteen years old," he said with a croaking squeal, "has just escaped from prison, where he was being held on suspicion of plotting to overthrow the government . He is a genius and an athlete, is slightly handicapped and should be considered extremely dangerous" (Vonnegut 3). These lines not only provide insight into Harrison's character and individuality, but also already show the conflicts he creates. Harrison is very bright and very strong. However, it is precisely this mental and physical strength that allowed him to escape from prison, defy the authorities and terrorize the public. His individuality is what leads him to create this conflict, as well as giving him the ability to do so. The final supporting evidence is then: "Though I stand here," he shouted, "crippled, limping, sickly - I am a greater ruler than any man who ever lived! Now watch me become what I can become!" (Vonnegut 5). In this scene, Harrison gives a demonstration of his abilities and, magnificent as they are, ends up getting both him and another person killed, terrorizing the people around, and almost getting them killed in the process. His justification? His greatness, his individual talent and just the fact that he is capable of it