Hegemony in Fahrenheit 451 By Ray Bradburry

Abstract

This research analyzes the operations of hegemony in the novel Fahrenheit 451. Authored by Ray Bradbury in 1953, the novel depicts the social existence of American society during a period when books were burned and destroyed. In that era, the role of firefighters was to burn houses containing books rather than extinguishing fires. The constitution restricted the circulation of books in the country. Instead, each dwelling was equipped with a three-dimensional "parlor wall" or a high-tech screen displaying various entertainment and information, all of which were regulated by the constitution. No critical thinking was required from the populace; they were expected to adhere to constitutional guidelines and strive for "happiness."

This research employs Antonio Gramsci's theory of hegemony as the main theoretical framework to dissect how the process of hegemony is executed by the dominant class over the subordinate class. This qualitative study relies on descriptive research, with primary and secondary data. Primary data is derived from the narrative and dialogues in Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451, specifically referencing the operation of hegemony in the dystopian society. Secondary data is primarily sourced from books, journals, essays, mass media, and internet websites relevant to this research.

The findings of this research elucidate that Fahrenheit 451 constructs the dominant and subordinate classes through various characters in its narrative. Characters from the dominant class wield the power to control society, while the subordinate class is portrayed as obedient to the dictates of the dominant class, albeit with some dissenting views. The dominant class employs several apparatuses to facilitate hegemonic practices over the subordinate society, including technology, language, censorship, mass media, and fear, with the aim of establishing control and maintaining their power.

Ray Bradbury's critical stance in creating "Fahrenheit 451" is deeply rooted in his personal experiences. When Bradbury wrote "Fahrenheit 451," the United States was undergoing McCarthyism and the Red Scare. These political and social events heightened public concerns about government censorship and authoritarianism. In the novel, the dystopian government burns books to maintain control over society, reflecting Bradbury's concerns about the potential suppression of dissenting opinions and free thought.