Introduction
This guide is designed to help you actively read and analyze Red Rising. The goal is not just to finish the book, but to think critically about themes, symbolism, power, society, morality, leadership, propaganda, and human nature.
You can also annotate while reading and respond to the questions and prompts throughout the novel.
Before You Read
Red Rising is a dystopian science fiction novel set in a future society divided into strict social classes called “Colors.” The story follows Darrow, a Red miner who begins to uncover the truth about the society he lives in.
The novel explores:
- Class systems
- Power and control
- Revolution
- Identity
- Loyalty and betrayal
- Sacrifice
- Leadership
- Manipulation and propaganda
- Justice vs revenge
Pre-Reading Questions
Answer these questions before beginning the novel:
- What makes a society fair or unfair?
- Why do people obey authority?
- Can violence ever be justified for a good cause?
- What responsibilities do leaders have?
- Would you rather have equality or freedom if you could only choose one?
- What causes revolutions?
- How does propaganda shape what people believe?
- What would make someone risk everything for change?
Annotation Guide
- Character Development: Darrow’s transformation, leadership qualities, loyalty and betrayal, internal conflicts and motivations and fears.
- Theme: power, freedom, oppression, equality, sacrifice, identity, revenge and humanity.
- Symbolism: colors, Helldiver imagery, gold society symbols, wolves, masks and technology.
- Important Quotes: reveal character, show conflict, explain society, contain strong imagery and connect to major themes.
- Questions & Confusion: write questions in the margin, predict what might happen and make connections.
Mrs. Robinson's Room 