The Hunger Games Society and Class

The Hunger Games is a novel about the "haves" and the "have nots" – that is, the people who have money and the people who don't. The Capitol has money. Gobs of it. While the Capitol is wealthier than all of the districts, some districts are more privileged than others, so they can train their tributes to do well in the Hunger Games – a competition they see as a way to gain glory and fame. The poor districts? Well, not much of an advantage there. District 12, Katniss's district, is an impoverished coal mining region that never stands a chance in the Games. They view the Games as a punishment that must be endured – something that robs them of their children. The novel asks you, then, to think about how money can change things for you – and change how you see the world.

Questions About Society and Class

1. List some of the differences between the Capitol and District 12.
2. Katniss and Peeta come from different social classes within District 12. Do their social statuses influence the way that they view or approach the Hunger Games? How?
3. What is Katniss's favorite dish to eat in the Capitol? Why?
4. Why do the Career Tributes have such an advantage over everyone else?
5. How does wealth affect the way different districts view the Games?