With whom do you think Vonnegut sympathizes in the story? Does he present Harrison as a hero, or is the story hero less? Why?

Answer 1

Vonnegut writes a scenario that displays his contempt of conformity in his sympathetic account of the actions of Harrison Bergeron. Harrison is presented in larger than life with a sense of confidence bordering on arrogance. Harrison must possess these attributes to survive the excruciating handicaps placed onto him by the Handicapper General, society, and even his own parents.

Irony is present as Vonnegut describes the physical and mental state of Harrison in comparison to his parents. Harrison, buoyant, confident and mesmerizing, lives more in five minutes of freedom than his parents do in their entire lives. Vonnegut views other characters, Harrison's parents in particular, with pity not sympathy. They suffer sorrowful lives. They lack individuality and conformity is what they allow themselves to see. Harrison's death is portrayed as sympathetic without pity. He is a martyr for those who strive to live life despite handicaps imposed upon them.