Essay Questions

How is corruption one of the primary themes in ‘The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress’ by Robert Heinlein?

The author uses this science fiction to illustrate how corruption manifests itself in governments. The Earth has controlled the Luna colony for many years, but it has declared its independence under the leadership of Mannie and Prof. When Prof and Mannie visit the Earth as diplomats, the government officials of the Earth want to bribe them to denounce the independence of Luna. However, Prof and Mannie refused the bribe, which resulted in their arrest. Fortunately, Stuart frees Prof and Mannie and later accompanies them to the Moon.

How Did Mannie and Mike ensure that they defeated the Earth armies when the Moon was invaded?

The Earth colonized the Moon over a long time, and when it declared independence, the Earth was determined to bring it back under its control. However, Mike and Mannie were tactical enough to make catapults that revolted against the Erath Army and defeated it twice. Similarly, the Earth's attempt to bribe Mannie to surrender the Moon was not successful. Towards the end, the Earth surrenders and allows the new government in the Moon to make its own decisions.

What is the important lesson the reader learns from the character Wyoming?

Wyoming is a strong woman and a hero in her rights. She is part of the revolution in the Moon, and she makes vital decisions that can help the rebellion achieve its goals of achieving independence. However, the men in her company are misogynic because they do not take her seriously. The reader learns that men should give women equal opportunities in making vital decisions without underrating their ability.