Discussion Topic

Symbolism and significance of the book of Job in Fahrenheit 451

Summary:

The book of Job in Fahrenheit 451 symbolizes suffering and faith. It parallels Montag's journey, reflecting his struggles and quest for understanding in a society that suppresses knowledge. The story of Job underscores themes of endurance and the search for meaning, highlighting the importance of questioning and self-awareness in the face of adversity.

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What quote does Faber read from the Book of Job in Fahrenheit 451?

This occurs as Montag is walking home from Faber's house to his own. It's in the second (middle) section of the book, "The Sieve and the Sand." Montag is about to leave but he's worried about dealing with the Captain, so he asks for Faber's help. This is when Faber gives him the radio piece to put in his ear. This is on page 83 in my book, 16 pages from the end of the second section, or 20 pages from the beginning of that section. Faber reads from the Book of Job and Montag hears it through the "green bullet" (radio) in his ear. 

"Would you like me to read? I'll read so you can remember. I go to bed only five hours a night. Nothing to do. So if you like, I'll read you to sleep nights. They say you retain knowledge even when you're sleeping, if someone whispers it in your ear." 

"Yes." 

"Here." Far away across town in the night, the faintest whisper of a turned page. "The Book of Job." 

The moon rose in the sky as Montag walked, his lips moving just a trifle. (83)

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Why is Faber's allusion to the book of Job in Fahrenheit 451 symbolic?

The allusion to the book of Job has significant symbolism that relates to Montag's stressful situation. Throughout the book of Job, Satan makes a bet with the Lord that Job will not remain faithful after he loses all his possessions, family, and household. Despite suffering significant losses and having his health decline, Job remains faithful to God. Job petitions God and asks God why he has allowed him to suffer after being such a faithful servant. The Lord speaks to Job and tells him humans will never have the capacity to understand how God operates. Like Job, Montag has also suffered losses. Montag has lost his job, his wife, and his good friend, Clarisse. Another similarity to Job is how Montag is searching for answers. Montag asks Faber to help him explain texts and is searching for meaning throughout the novel. In the story of Job, the Lord restores Job to greater glory and wealth than he had previously for remaining faithful during difficult times. In the novel Fahrenheit 451, Montag finds meaning to his life and is given the opportunity to rebuild a literate society. Both stories end with positive outcomes and involve searching for meaning in life.

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