The Hunger Games are like a mini-war, or a war substitute. They're held every year in Panem to prevent a real war and to keep the citizens pacified. For the people selected to fight in the Games, though, their experience may be even worse than a real soldier's. They can't trust anyone. There are no sides. They can't wait for a surrender. It's all or nothing, every man for himself. And they have to enter the war knowing that nearly all of them are going to lose. The Quarter Quell that takes place in Catching Fire is even worse, because all the participants have been through this before, survived, and were promised never to have to experience it again. So much for the Capitol's promises.
Questions About Warfare
- How are the Games and the Quarter Quell similar to war? How are they different?
- In your opinion, what is the most dangerous/terrible/horrifying threat the tributes encounter in the arena? Why?
- How can anyone really win the Games? Who do you think wins the Quarter Quell?
- Do you think the Games are an effective means of keeping the citizens of Panem from rebelling?