THEMES of The Hunger Games

What is the most important theme in The Hunger Games?

Power and control.

How does the Capitol maintain power?

Through fear, violence, poverty, division, propaganda, and control of information.

What is the theme of social inequality?

The film contrasts the Capitol's wealth and excess with the districts' poverty and scarcity.

How does the film demonstrate inequality?

Through contrasting settings, costumes, lifestyles, food, and living conditions.

What is propaganda?

Information or media used to influence people's opinions and control how they understand events.

How does the Capitol use propaganda?

It controls the televised Games and creates narratives around the tributes.

Why are the Hunger Games a form of propaganda?

They remind the districts of the Capitol's power while entertaining and distracting the population.

What is the theme of entertainment and violence?

The Capitol turns the suffering and deaths of children into entertainment.

What does the film suggest about violence as entertainment?

It can cause people to become desensitised to suffering.

How is love important in the film?

Love motivates Katniss's sacrifice and helps resist the dehumanising nature of the Games.

How does Katniss's love for Prim affect the story?

It causes her to volunteer and drives many of her later actions.

What is the theme of humanity versus survival?

The Games force people to choose between surviving and maintaining their compassion and morality.

How does Katniss preserve her humanity?

She protects others, cares for Rue, honours Rue's death, and refuses to become completely brutal.

What is the theme of rebellion?

Individuals can challenge oppressive systems through choices, symbols, compassion, and defiance.

Does Katniss initially intend to start a rebellion?

No. Her actions initially come from love and survival, but they gradually become symbols of resistance.

What is the theme of female empowerment?

Katniss challenges traditional expectations by being independent, skilled, physically capable, courageous, and decisive.

What is the central conflict between Katniss and the Capitol?

Individual freedom and humanity versus authoritarian control.

What does the film suggest about power?

Powerful systems can control people's circumstances but cannot completely control their choices or humanity.