V For Vendetta: Why Americans Consider It Controversial

V for Vendetta is considered controversial in the United States for several reasons. Terrorism is a source of fear and unrest for most Americans. In V for Vendetta the main character is a terrorist, therefore it is not surprising that this element of the book causes debate. People do not want to see this kind of violence put front and center in a book. Alhtough V is trying trying to start a revolution for a cause he knows is right, he uses violence and radical means to argue his position. This type of radicalism is feared by Americans, especially since September 11th, 2001. Naturally a book that idealizes this kind of expression is going to cause dissent.

In the book it is stated that much of the world has been destroyed by war, particulary nuclear weapons. America is not mentioned in the book at all; in my opinion it is safe to assume that America has been completely destroyed also and only, "England Prevails." The fact that most of the world has been wiped out and England is the only super power left is going to cause dispute. As Americans we tend to be very confident in the strength of our country. A book that alludes to the fact that we have been eradicated is offensive; a giant blow to our ego. As Americans we think, "How dare a book claim that we have not survived a war. We are America we can do anything, defeat anyone, we are a superpower and always will be!" It is not astonishing that a book that contradicts our superiority would be considered controversial.

V for Vendetta takes place in the late 90's. Although this is not present day, it is not in the distant past. A book that puts terrorism and radicalism in our present day is unsettling. Our world is faced with extremists on an everyday basis. However, literature that incites these ideas is going to be contentious. Also, America is currently in a war to defeat and eliminate terrorism. Any book that contains acts of this type of violence is going to cause debate and opposition.