Montag’s Transformation in Fahrenheit 451

Change is the main component of human life throughout one's existence and is inevitable. Although sometimes it may be difficult to change, or to do what it right, it is always advantageous in the long run. It creates opportunities and opens doors to new possibilities and ideas, which can broaden our sense of worth and disclose our true integrity.

How Does Montag Change Throughout the Novel

In most novels, the protagonist develops and is enlightened, which is a direct effect of the changes in either a society, friend group, quality of life, or the protagonists' own self. Sometimes, change can come abruptly because of an event or an incident that happens, or it can com gradually through time while the character begins to understand himself and their own morals. In Ray Bradbury's novel, Fahrenheit 451, Clarisse, Faber, and Granger had an enormous impact on the protagonist, Montag; thus, changing his views on society.

Clearly, Clarisse McClellan played an essential role in Montag's transformation, through her unique personality and her conversations with Montag. Clarisse told Montag, "You're one of the few who put up with me. That's why I think it's so strange you're a fireman, it just doesn't seem right for you, somehow." In this quote, it is clear that Clarisse is aiding Montag to realize his self worth and capabilities.

One can foreshadow from this quote that deep inside, Montag wanted a drastic change in his life, and would do anything do dig himself out of the hole society has created. One can conclude that Clarisse's questioning of Montag's role in society, and his happiness overall, began the chain reaction into the transformation he went through. Also, Clarisse's death made Montag realize that the government is attempting to censor information, which shows the reader that Clarisse was different, and Montag identified with her.

Similar to Clarisse's effect on Montag's transformation, Faber helped transform Montag through his past experiences, and his knowledge of books and life in general. Faber stated Mr. Montag, you are looking at a coward. I saw the way things were going, a long time back, I said nothing. It is evident from this quote that Faber's lack of courage to stand up for his belief, gave Montag motivation to stand up himself.

Also, since Faber had great knowledge about books, and were to obtain someone to print them, Montag could use him as a tool to complete his plan. Faber's willingness to teach Montag the meaning behind his plan, showed that Montag was ready to carry through with his plan. Also, one can conclude that when Montag began to see Faber's passion about the plan to take the society out from the inside, it gave him a sense of partnership, that would allow him to carry out the plan.

Lastly, the final touches to Montag's transformation can be largely credited to Granger. He said, "Everyone must leave something behind when he dies." One can conclude that Granger is telling Montag that when he rejected the censorship morals of society, it was his mark that he left on earth. Also, when Granger told Montag, I struck a fireman when he came to burn my library years ago, this made it evident to Montag, that he was not the only ones with frustrations and animosity towards societies ways.

One can conclude that Montag was finally at peace with himself and his actions, because Granger made him realize he was not alone in his journey. Also, Granger's society, which consisted of memorizing books to hopefully make a difference, gave Montag a a purpose for his life, thus transforming him into a new person.

All things considered, Montag transformed and changed his views on society due to the wisdom of Clarisse, Faber, and Granger. It is evident that all three characters played a vital role in opening Montag's mind, and helped him realize his true purpose. Firstly his difficulty expressing his true feelings about society, due to rejection, was receded through Clarisse's questioning of Montag. Secondly, Faber's cowardice in past events, helped Montag realize that he needed to make a difference, unlike Faber.

Lastly, Granger's society gave meaning to Montag's life, therefore helping him to carry out his purpose, recuperate his integrity, and overall, to transform as a human. Without doubt, Montag's indifferent perspective on society, and the censorship that came along with it, quickly changed with the clear understanding that Clarise, Faber, and Granger had; thus, making Montag aware of the true dystopia he lived in.

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