Study Questions for Chapters 13 – 18
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Chapter 13
Given their mutual attraction, why does John reject Lenina’s advances? What ideals do his words and actions reflect?
Chapter 14
Identify the particular memories flood over John as he stands before his mother. Why are they significant? What role do memories play in the civilized World State?
In sharp contrast to commonly-held perceptions, why isn’t death feared as terrible for the people of the World State?
Chapter 15
What does the title phrase mean as it is repeated here? Is it different than before?
Detail John’s conceptualization of freedom, manhood, and liberty. Why does he take a stand against the soma distribution?
Chapter 16
Heimholz claims that tragedy cannot be written; why is that? What is necessary for tragedy?
Does art have any place or meaning in the World State? Why?
Describe Mond’s views on liberty, truth, and beauty. Do they contrast with the ideals of happiness and stability, as they are deployed in the World State? Explain.
What role does science play in the World State? Explain what aspects of scientific progress must be constrained according to Mond.
Chapter 17
Detail Mond and John’s contrasting views on religion. What does the latter believe are its advantages? Why does his interlocutor respond it is unnecessary and potentially dangerous? According to him, what is the role of God and how is it related to a concept of the self?
According to John, solitude plays a crucial role in spirituality – how so? How has soma helped in eradicate spirituality?
Chapter 18
Explain John’s rationale for his exile and his self-flagellation.
Is John’s ultimate decision inevitable, or are there any alternatives?