Katniss and Haymitch: Mentor-Mentee Tension

The rocky relationship between Katniss and Haymitch, built on mutual distrust but ultimately respect.

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The Distrust

The Antagonists The First Encounter Katniss finds Haymitch disgusting. She thinks he is a waste of a mentor. She resents having to rely on him. They clash immediately. The Test Haymitch tests Katniss and Peeta. He pushes them to fight. He is harsh but effective. Katniss begins to see that he might be useful. The Communication Haymitch communicates through gifts. He sends the burn ointment at the right time. Katniss realizes he is smarter than he appears. The tension eases slightly.

The Respect

The Mentor's Care The Warning Haymitch warns Katniss about the Capitol's anger. He coaches her on how to act. He is protective. He has invested in her survival. The Hug When Katniss hugs him first, he whispers guidance. It is a moment of connection. They are not friends, but they have a bond of mutual survival. The New Understanding Katniss realizes that Haymitch has been through the same trauma. He is a fellow survivor. She respects him. The mentor-mentee relationship is now based on trust, albeit fragile.

Initial meetings

After the Games