Farenheit 451
...a fireman who is searching to find the meaning and truth of the world he is living in. Clarisse directs to theme of the novel in that direction stating that in order to find reality, one must be exposed to what one does not believe. By helping Montag and allowing him to gain a better understanding of what he believes, Clarisse is similar to the light-bringer character in Plato's "Allegory of the Cave".Throughout the novel, Clarisses characteristics relate to those of the light-bringer by allowing Montag to target his own probelms and resolve them through exposing him to what is real.
The light-bringer has knowledge of what the prisoners are being exposed to and in the novel, Montag could be considered the prisoner. Clarisse's knowledge, like that of the lightbringer, allows for control over what the prisoners are exposed to; reality versus unreality. This theme demonstrates the interaction between a two dimensional character, being Clarisse, and her shaping the mind of Montag who is in constant change and confusion. Being a foil of Montag's wife, Clarisse is also one of the lightbringer in many aspects. She has personal contact and conversations with a man who on a quest to learn something she has been doing as well. Fahrenheit 451 acts as an example of the "Allegory of the Cave" in a modern way showing the same persuit for something, finding reality. This finding of reality is only possible if one is able to find themself internally and fully understand both sides of what they are exposed to. The lightbringer and Clarisse act together by having an individual determine which they want to believe through ceratin influences. They also act as a guide that tests them through various scenarios, these scenarios are part of daily life activities and overcoming obstacles. Being aware of their surroundings and able to improve self development and understanding, both...
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