Answer:
In summary, Hazel’s “perfectly average” nature exempts her from the enforced handicaps, allowing her to exist without the mental and physical limitations imposed on others in the society depicted in “Harrison Bergeron.”
Explanation:
Here are some textual pieces of evidence that highlight why Hazel does not require any additional handicaps:
Intellectual Average: The story explicitly states that Hazel is “perfectly average” in terms of intelligence. Her inability to sustain prolonged thoughts aligns with this description. Unlike George and Harrison, who wear handicaps to suppress their abilities, Hazel’s natural state is already within the acceptable range of “average” intellect.
Supportive Presence: Throughout the narrative, Hazel exhibits a loving and supportive presence. She never directly opposes the Handicapper General’s laws, but she does express her ambivalence toward them. For instance, she suggests that George rest his handicaps, saying, "I don’t care if you’re not equal to me for a while"1. This implies that Hazel recognizes the burden placed on her husband and son due to the handicaps.
Emotional Fragility: After the tragic death of her son, Hazel cries. However, her inability to focus on a single thought for more than an instant prevents her from fully comprehending the reason for her distress once the television burns out. This emotional fragility further emphasizes her lack of need for additional handicaps
