Bradbury's Allusion to the Book of Ecclesiastes

Bradbury uses the Bible as a symbol and allusion in Fahrenheit 451. The Book of Ecclesiastes is continually mentioned throughout the novel and is noteworthy because of its significance to the novel.

The Bible itself is significant to the novel, and Montag's copy of it is brought into the story rather quickly. Bradbury's choice of connecting the Bible, and specific books within it, to Montag is interesting. The Bible is, in most regards, a book of salvation. In the Old Testament that is salvation though God, while the New Testament it is salvation through Jesus. Although Montag is not really comparable to a Jesus figure, as say Equality 7-2521 is in Anthem, Montag is certainly on a quest for salvation throughout the novel. Upon finding his salvation from the firemen and the society he'd been trapped in, Montag sets out on a quest to save others who survived the bombing runs of the war, essentially becoming the savior. The Bible as a whole definitely pertains to Montag's journey though the novel.

By the end of the novel Montag associates himself with a specific portion of the Bible, the Book of Ecclesiastes. Not only was the Bible an excellent choice for Montag to have, but also this specific book within the Old Testament.
The Book of Ecclesiastes is basically a narrative given from the perspective of "the Preacher." Within the narrative, the Preacher reveals depression caused by seeking happiness in worldly things. The Preacher explores most every form of worldly pleasure, however it all leaves him unsatisfied and with a lack of self-meaning. This is very comparable to Montag's progression throughout the novel, and it seems only fitting that Montag is the Preacher himself. Montag's choice to deny the fast cars, giant televisions, and thrill of burning books, only drew him closer to finding a sense of true happiness and meaning.

Bradbury's choice to use the novel reflects the problems within Montag's society and was undoubtedly a wise choice for an allusion.