1984 essay conclusion

Common Module State-Rank Essay Showcase: Nineteen Eighty-Four

The following essay was written by Project Academy English Tutor, Marko Beocanin

Marko Beocanin

99.95 ATAR & 3 x State Ranker

The following essay was written by Project Academy English Teacher, Marko Beocanin.

Marko’s Achievements:

• 8th in NSW for English Advanced (98/100)
• Rank 1 in English Advanced, Extension 1 and Extension 2
• School Captain of Normanhurst Boys High School

Marko kindly agreed to share his essay and thorough annotations to help demystify for HSC students what comprises an upper Band 6 response!

Common Module: Nineteen Eighty-Four Essay Question

Marko’s following essay was written in response to the question:

“The representation of human experiences makes us more aware of the intricate nature of humanity.” In your response, discuss this statement with detailed reference to George Orwell’s ‘Nineteen Eighty-Four’.

State-Ranking Common Module Essay Response

George Orwell’s 1949 Swiftian satire Nineteen Eighty-Four invites us to appreciate the intricate nature of humanity by representing how the abuse of power by totalitarian governments degrades our individual and collective experiences. (Link to rubric through individual/collective experiences, and a clear cause and effect argument: totalitarian governance -> degraded human experience. Also, comments on the genre of Swiftian satire. Value!) Orwell explores how oppressive authorities suppress the intricate societal pillars of culture, expression and freedom to maintain power. He then reveals how this suppression brutalises individual human behaviour and motivations because it undermines emotion and intricate thought. (Link to rubric through ‘human behaviour and motivations’, and extended cause and effect in which the first paragraph explores the collective ‘cause’ and the second paragraph explores the individual ‘effect’. This is an easy way to structure your arguments whilst continuously engaging with the rubric!) Ultimately, he argues that we must resist the political apathy that enables oppressive governments to maintain power and crush human intricacy. Therefore, his representation of human experiences not only challenges us to consider the intricate nature of humanity, but exhorts us to greater political vigilance so we can preserve it. (Concluding sentence that broadens the scope of the question and reaffirms the purpose of the text).

Orwell makes us aware of the intricate nature of humanity by representing how totalitarian authorities suppress intricate collective experiences of culture, expression and freedom in order to assert control. (This is the ‘collective’ paragraph – a cause and effect argument that relates the question to the loss of human intricacy in the collective as a result of totalitarian rule). His bleak vision was informed by Stalin’s USSR: a regime built upon the fabrication of history in Stalin’s ‘cult of personality’, and ruthlessly enforced by the NKVD. (Specific context – an actual specific regime is named and some details about its enforcement are given). The symbolic colourlessness and propaganda-poster motif he uses to describe London reflects the loss of human intricacy and culture under such leadership: “there seemed to be no colour in anything, except the posters that were plastered everywhere.” (First example sets up the world of the text, and the degraded collective experience). Orwell uses the telescreens, dramatically capitalised “BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING YOU” posters and allusions to Stalin in Big Brother’s “black-moustachio’d face” as metonyms for how governmental surveillance dominates both physical and cultural collective experiences. Winston’s metatextual construction of the fictitious “Comrade Ogilvy” serves as a symbol for the vast, worthless masses of information produced by totalitarian governments to undermine the intricacy of real human history: “Comrade Ogilvy, who had never existed…would exist just as authentically, and upon the same evidence, as Charlemagne or Julius Caesar.” Similarly, Orwell’s satirical representation of Newspeak ignites the idea that political slovenliness causes self-expression to degrade, which in turn destroys our capacity for intricate thought and resistance: “we shall make thoughtcrime literally impossible, because there will be no words in which to express it.” (The examples above prove that the government’s leadership style truly is totalitarian, and that it results in a loss of intricacy and ‘humanity’ in the collective. It’s good to cover a variety of examples that explore different facets of the collective – for example, the first example establishes the extreme surveillance, the second example establishes the loss of ‘truth’/history, and the third example establishes the loss of language). The political bitterness that marks Nineteen Eighty-Four as a Swiftian satire (This is a link to the ‘Swiftian’ term used in the thesis statement. It’s important to refer back to any descriptive terms you use in your thesis) ultimately culminates in O’Brien’s monologue, where Orwell juxtaposes the politicised verb “abolish” to symbols of human intricacy, “we shall abolish the orgasm…there will be no art, no literature, no science…when we are omnipotent”, to express how totalitarian rulers suppress collective experiences to gain metaphoric omnipotence. Thus, Orwell makes us aware of the intricate nature of humanity by representing a future in which totalitarian governments suppress it. (A linking sentence that ties it all back to the question and rephrases the point)

Orwell then argues that the effect of this suppression is a loss of human intricacy that brutalises society and devalues individual experiences. (Cause and effect argument that links collective suppression to a loss of human intricacy on an individual scale – continuous engagement with the question and the rubric!) Orwell’s exposure to the widespread hysteria of Hitler’s Nazi regime, caused by the Nuremberg Rallies and Joseph Goebbels’ virulent anti-semitic propaganda, informs his representation of Oceania’s dehumanised masses. (More specific context around the Nazis, and a specific link to how it informed his work) The burlesque Two Minute Hate reveals human inconsistency by representing how even introspective, intelligent characters can be stripped of their intricacy and compassion by the experience of collective hysteria: even Winston wishes to “flog [Julia] to death with a rubber truncheon…ravish her and cut her throat at the moment of climax”, and is only restored by compliance to the Christ-like totalitarian authority, “My-Saviour!”, Big Brother. (A link to the rubric with the ‘human inconsistency’ point) Orwell frequently juxtaposes dehumanising representations of the proles, “the proles are not human beings”, to political sloganism: “As the Party slogan put it: ‘Proles and animals are free’”, to argue that in such a collectively suppressed society, the upper class grow insensitive towards the intricate nature of those less privileged. (It’s important to link the proles into your argument – they’re often forgotten, but they’re a big part of the text!) He asserts that this loss of empathy degrades the authenticity and intricacy of human relationships, characterised by Winson’s paradoxically hyperbolic repulsion towards his wife: “[Katharine] had without exception the most stupid, vulgar, empty mind that he had every encountered”. (Continuous engagement with the question and rubric: make sure to recycle rubric terms – here, done with ‘paradoxically’ – and question terms – here, with ‘intricacy’)  Winston’s “betrayal” of Julia symbolises how totalitarianism ultimately brutalises individuals by replacing their compassion for intricate ideals such as love with selfish pragmatism: “Do it to Julia…Tear her face off, strip her to the bones. Not me!” Therefore, Orwell makes us more aware of the intricate nature of humanity by demonstrating how it can be robbed by suppressive governments and collective hysteria. (A linking sentence that sums up the paragraph).

By making us aware of how totalitarian governments suppress meaningful human experiences both individually and collectively, Orwell challenges us to resist so we can preserve our intricate nature. (This third paragraph discusses Orwell’s purpose as a composer. This can in general be a helpful way to structure paragraphs: Collective, Individual, Purpose) Orwell’s service in the 1930s Spanish Civil War as part of the Republican militia fighting against fascist-supported rebels positions him to satirise the political apathy of his audience. (Integration of personal context is useful here to justify Orwell’s motivations. It’s also a lot fresher than just including another totalitarian regime Orwell was exposed to) Orwell alludes to this through the metaphor of Winston’s diarising as an anomalous individual experience of resistance, ““[Winston] was a lonely ghost uttering a truth that nobody would ever hear,” which highlights how his intricate nature persists even in a suppressive society. Often, Orwell meta-fictively addresses his own context, as “a time when thought is free…when truth exists”, to establish an imperative to preserve our intricate human nature while we still can. The Julia romance trope (It’s good to include terms such as ‘trope’ which reflect your understanding of narrative structure and the overall form of the work.) represents how Winston’s gradual rejection of his political apathy empowered him to experience an authentic, intricately human relationship that subverts his totalitarian society: “the gesture with which [Julia] had thrown her clothes aside…[belonged] to an ancient time. Winston woke up with the word ‘Shakespeare’ on his lips.” Orwell juxtaposes Julia’s sexuality to Shakespeare, an immediately-recognisable metonym for culture and history, to argue that human intricacy can only be restored by actively resisting the dehumanising influence of the government. Orwell also represents Winston’s desensitised and immediate devotion to the Brotherhood to reflect how the preservation of human intricacy is a cause worth rebelling for, even by paradoxically unjust means: “[Winston was] prepared to commit murder…acts of sabotage which may cause the deaths of hundreds of innocent people…throw sulphuric acid in a child’s face.” (More chronological examples that show Winston’s transformation throughout the text. It’s useful to explore and contrast those who resist with those who don’t resist, and how just the act of resistance in some way restores our humanity! That’s why this paragraph comes after the ‘brutalised individual experience’ paragraph) However, Orwell ultimately asserts that it is too late for Winston to meaningfully restore humanity’s intricate nature, and concludes the text with his symbolic death and acceptance of the regime, “[Winston] had won the victory over himself. He loved Big Brother.” (It’s important to remember that Orwell ends the text so miserably so that he can motivate his audiences not to do the same thing). The futility of this ending ignites the idea that we must not only be aware of our intricate nature, but must actively resist oppressive governments while we still can in order to preserve it. (A linking sentence that ties the paragraph together and justifies the futility of the ending)

Therefore, Orwell’s representation of human experiences in Nineteen Eighty-Four encourages us to reflect personally on our own intricate human nature, and challenges us to fight to preserve it. (Engages with the question (through the reflection point), and includes Orwell’s purpose as a composer). His depiction of a totalitarian government’s unchecked assertion of power on human culture and freedom, and the brutalising impact this has on individual and collective experiences, ultimately galvanises us to reject political apathy. (Your argument summaries can often be combined into a sentence or two in the conclusion now that the marker knows what you’re talking about. This reinforces the cause and effect structure as well.) Thus, the role of storytelling for Orwell is not only to make us more aware of our intricate nature, but to prove that we must actively resist oppressive governments while we still can in order to preserve it. (The clincher! It’s often useful to add “not only” in your final sentence to reinforce the massive scope of the text)

If reading this essay has helped you, you may also enjoy reading Marko’s ultimate guide to writing 20/20 HSC English essays .

P.S If you have any questions about aceing HSC English , you are welcome to learn from Marko and join one of Project Academy’s HSC English classes on a 3 week trial .

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How to Write an Engaging Essay on 1984 That Your Teacher Will Actually Enjoy Reading (And Grade You Accordingly!)

Writing an essay on George Orwell’s 1984 can be hard, especially when you sit down the first time to actually get it done.  After all, this dystopian novel is packed with complex ideas about surveillance, freedom, and power. But the key to writing a great essay isn’t just summarizing the plot or analyzing the apparent themes —it’s about finding your unique angle and interestingly presenting your ideas. Think about it– if you were a teacher and had to read 20 essays on the same book, wouldn’t you reward the most interesting one with the best grade? Here’s how to write an essay that will stand out and, more importantly, keep your teacher engaged.

1. Start with a Unique Thesis

Every great essay starts with a strong thesis. Instead of focusing on overused themes like “Big Brother represents government surveillance,” dig deeper to find something fresh. Ask yourself: What does 1984 say about human nature, technology, or even personal relationships? Your thesis should reflect a clear, focused argument that you can support with evidence from the text. Here are a few fresh ideas:

• “Orwell’s portrayal of Winston’s rebellion in 1984 reflects not just a fight against oppression but a deeper psychological struggle to reclaim individual identity.”
• “In 1984 , the manipulation of language through Newspeak reveals how control over language is ultimately control over thought.”

Once you have a strong thesis, your essay will have direction, and your ideas will flow naturally from this central point.

2. Use Specific and Interesting Evidence

When writing about a text as popular as 1984 , it’s easy to fall into the trap of using the same examples and quotes that everyone else does. To keep your essay original, try digging into less obvious parts of the book. For instance, instead of focusing solely on famous moments like Winston’s torture, explore smaller scenes that reveal key insights, such as:

• Winston’s quiet interactions with Julia , which showcase the novel’s exploration of personal rebellion.
• The children’s role in the Party’s control, which reflects how future generations are groomed for loyalty.

By choosing interesting and often overlooked passages, you’ll make your essay more engaging and demonstrate a deeper understanding of the novel.

3. Analyze Orwell’s Use of Language

Orwell was a master of language, and one of the key elements that make 1984 such a compelling novel is his use of it. Instead of focusing solely on the plot, analyze how Orwell’s language choices contribute to the themes and mood. For example:

• Examine the significance of Newspeak and how the reduction of language limits thought and expression. How does this reflect real-world examples of language manipulation in politics or media?
• Consider Orwell’s use of paradoxes (e.g., “War is Peace,” “Freedom is Slavery”). Why are these contradictory statements so powerful in shaping the world of 1984 ?

By focusing on Orwell’s craft, you’ll show your teacher that you can engage with the novel on a deeper, more analytical level.

4. Compare 1984 to Today’s World

One of the reasons 1984 continues to resonate is its relevance to current events. Without turning your essay into a political rant, you can explore how themes from 1984 connect to the world today. Consider questions like:

• How does Orwell’s depiction of surveillance and privacy in 1984 compare to modern-day concerns over government surveillance, social media, and data privacy?
• In what ways does 1984 mirror today’s use of propaganda or “fake news”?

Making thoughtful connections between the novel and today’s world shows that you can apply literature to modern contexts—a skill that teachers love to see.

5. Don’t Forget Character Analysis

While 1984 is often praised for its world-building, its characters are also essential to understanding its deeper themes. Focusing on a key character can give your essay depth and personality. Here are some ideas:

• Dive into Winston’s character arc—his hopes, fears, and ultimate downfall. How does his rebellion reflect the human spirit’s resistance to oppression?
• Explore O’Brien’s role as a manipulative figure. Is he merely a tool of the Party, or does he represent something more profound about power and control?

By focusing on character, you can ground your essay in the emotional and psychological aspects of the novel, making it more compelling to read.

6. End with a Thought-Provoking Conclusion

Your conclusion is your last chance to leave a lasting impression on your reader. Don’t just restate your thesis—use your final paragraph to ask new questions or offer reflections that encourage your teacher to keep thinking about your essay. For example:

• How does 1984 challenge readers to reflect on their own freedoms and privacy in the digital age?
• What does Winston’s failure tell us about the nature of resistance and the power of the state?

A strong, thought-provoking conclusion will make your essay memorable and might even spark further discussion in the classroom.

7. Keep It Engaging!

Lastly, remember that your essay doesn’t have to be dry or overly formal. While it’s important to be academic, you can still write with a voice that’s engaging and easy to read. Avoid overly complicated language, and focus on clear, concise arguments. If you’re excited about your ideas, that enthusiasm will come through in your writing—and your teacher will take notice!

Final Thoughts

Writing an essay on 1984 doesn’t have to be a chore. By finding a unique thesis, using specific evidence, and making connections to modern-day issues, you’ll write a paper that not only earns a good grade but is genuinely enjoyable to read. Do it for your grade, but also do it for your teacher’s sake! They get bored too!

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by George Orwell

1984 study guide.

In 1984 , George Orwell presents his vision of dystopia, a world consisting of three massive totalitarian states constantly at war with each other and using technological advancements to keep their respective Party members and masses under careful observation and control. Written in 1948 and published in 1949, this novel is often touted as one of the greatest novels written in the English language.

In writing the work, Orwell was influenced and inspired by totalitarian regimes of the time, including Hitler's Nazi Germany and Stalin's Soviet Union. Both regimes glorified their respective leaders as demi-gods and saviors, required the destruction of all individuality in order to promote the Party's needs over the individual's, demanded absolute loyalty from their citizens, and resorted to violence whenever disloyalty was suspected. Moreover, both regimes consistently demonized their enemies, just as the Party and Big Brother do in 1984 , through the Two Minutes Hate, Hate Week, and daily mass propaganda. Other parallels include the Thought Police as a reinvention of the Gestapo, NKVD (People's Comissariat for Internal Affairs), which orchestrated large scale purges and terror, and the Spies and Youth League as a reinvention of the Hitler Youth and the Little Octoberists, which indoctrinated young people to the Party and encouraged them to report disloyalty observed in their elders, even among family members.

The similarities between 1984 's Oceania and Stalin's regime are particularly striking. Like Stalin, the Oceanian government embraces characteristics of both fascist and communist authoritarianism: the former glorifies the wisdom of the leader, and the latter, the infallibility of the Party. We can see both trends in 1984 , where Big Brother (albeit apparently a fictitious entity) is worshipped as a wise and loving leader, and the Party is practically structured around its own supposed infallibility. In addition, many of the particulars of the Oceanian system, such as the Three-Year Plans and the forced labor camps, appear to be thinly veiled allusions to aspects of Stalin's rule. It is even often suggested that Oceania's Big Brother, with his dark hair and heavy mustache, is inspired by the larger-than-life images of Josef Stalin's visage so commonly seen in the Soviet Union.

Orwell's time working with the Indian Imperial Police in Burma introduced him to the shameful activities of the British in the Far East, and appears to have encouraged his exploration of the lives of the urban poor. After returning to Europe, Orwell continued to focus on this subject and began to develop a vague distrust of machine-age capitalist society that later blossomed into a firm adherence to Socialism, bolstered by his time working with the revolutionary Marxist POUM (Partido Obrero de Unificacion Marxista, or Worker's Party of Marxist Unification), the dissident faction of the Spanish Communist party. However, when the Stalin-backed Communists turned on their far-left anarchist allies and labeled POUM pro-fascist, Orwell fled to avoid prison, or worse, death. This experience taught Orwell the danger of abandoning true Socialist revolutionary ideals, and he developed both a fixation on totalitarianism and an abhorrence for Stalinist Communism, both of which are clearly expressed in 1984 . World War II's introduction of totalitarianism through fascist and communist regimes solidified Orwell's hatred of the ideology.

During the war, Orwell was equally unimpressed by his experience in Britain. From 1940-1943, Orwell was employed by the BBC, under the control of the British Ministry of Information, which served as inspiration for Winston's position at the Ministry of Truth, and perhaps for Newspeak. In this capacity, Orwell witnessed the propagation of stories glorifying Britain's triumphs while the British Empire was simultaneously steadily declining. This type of disconnect between reality and the information disseminated to the public clearly makes its way into the novel.

It is unclear to what extent Orwell believed 1984 to be an accurate prediction of the future, but many critics agree that he wrote the book as a warning to modern society of the damage that can come from embracing totalitarian regimes. The novel mourns the loss of personal identity while demonstrating how to effectively rid a person of their independence, particularly through extensive sexual repression and the prohibition of individual thought. Many of the concepts and themes presented in 1984 have steadily made their way into the common vernacular. For instance, the phrase "Big Brother" is often used to refer to the advancement and expansion of technology used to observe and record behavior, such as video cameras placed on city streets and government monitoring of phone and Internet communication. The adjective "Orwellian" is also commonly used to describe such real-world developments reminiscent of 1984 .

Orwell wrote 1984 while seriously ill with tuberculosis, and afterward commented that had he not been so ill, the book might not have been so bleak. To his consternation, after its publication, 1984 was used as propaganda itself, especially by Western forces in post-World War II Germany. Much later, there were many attempts to censor the novel, particularly on the grounds that it contains pro-Communist material and sexual references. The book has also been adapted to both television shows and movies, and has served as inspiration for a variety of other artistic endeavors, such as David Bowie's Diamond Dogs album, which includes a song titled 1984 .

1984 Questions and Answers

The Question and Answer section for 1984 is a great resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.

Describe O’Briens apartment and lifestyle. How do they differ from Winston’s?

From the text:

It was only on very rare occasions that one saw inside the dwelling-places of the Inner Party, or even penetrated into the quarter of the town where they lived. The whole atmosphere of the huge block of flats, the richness and...

What was the result of Washington exam

Sorry, I'm not sure what you are asking here.

how is one put into the inner or outer party in the book 1984

The Outer Party is a huge government bureaucracy. They hold positions of trust but are largely responsible for keeping the totalitarian structure of Big Brother functional. The Outer Party numbers around 18 to 19 percent of the population and the...

Study Guide for 1984

1984 study guide contains a biography of George Orwell, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.

• 1984 Summary
• Character List

Essays for 1984

1984 essays are academic essays for citation. These papers were written primarily by students and provide critical analysis of 1984 by George Orwell.

• The Reflection of George Orwell
• Totalitarian Collectivism in 1984, or, Big Brother Loves You
• Sex as Rebellion
• Class Ties: The Dealings of Human Nature Depicted through Social Classes in 1984
• 1984: The Ultimate Parody of the Utopian World

Lesson Plan for 1984

• About the Author
• Study Objectives
• Common Core Standards
• Introduction to 1984
• Relationship to Other Books
• Bringing in Technology
• Notes to the Teacher
• Related Links
• 1984 Bibliography

Wikipedia Entries for 1984

• Introduction

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1984 Essay Writing Manual For All

Published in 1949 by Secker & Warburg, 1984 is George Orwell’s ninth and final work. The story takes place in a dystopian future where most of the world’s inhabitants have fallen beneath oppressive government surveillance, propaganda, endless war, and historical denialism. It was an instant hit and has since been adapted into several films, television series, and stage plays.

It’s a popular piece of literary writing that finds its way in most high school curricula and is one of the first novels of serious literary merit that students encounter on their way to learning how to write argumentative writing. This article shows how to do so specifically for a 1984 George Orwell Essay.

A Short 1984 Plot Summary

The story focuses on Winston Smith a low-ranking member of the ruling Party in London, Oceania (formerly England). Smith is surveilled everywhere he goes, even his own home, by the Party’s leader, Big Brother. The Party uses surveillance, propaganda, war, and historical denialism to control the citizens of the country. This sets-up the opportunity for students that want to focus on a 1984 totalitarianism essay because the oppression of the Party mirrors a lot of Orwell was commenting on as it related to the Russian and Spanish regimes at the time.

Smith is displeased by the oppression of the government and secretly purchases a diary in which he writes his rebellious and criminal thoughts. He is also intrigued by a man named O’Brien, a powerful party member Smith believes is working to overthrow the Party through the work of the Brotherhood.

As Smith begins to take action to become a part of the Brotherhood, he is found out by those that supported him in efforts to align against the Party. After torture, Smith reveals a lover, Julia, as a coconspirator or sympathizer against the Party. Later the two meet again and discuss their histories and situations, but neither trusts or has feelings for the other and Smith has been manipulated so much to the point that he admits his love for Big Brother.

As you can see, there are several types of 1984 essays you can write about, including surveillance, theme, symbolism, analysis, and rhetorical. We will discuss each of these briefly later in this article. But first, let’s start with a writing process with any essay questions for 1984 .

How to Write an Essay on 1984

Students are often asked to write a 1984 essay assignment in high school English classes when they are still honing their skills in the analysis of literary works and formulating arguments in a structured and logical way. Students can feel a bit overwhelmed with this kind of assignment because it challenges them to think critically and present an original and well-thought thesis reflecting their points of view on a given topic.

The following is a short but effective how-to-guide for writing a great essay about 1984 in just a few simple steps:

• Reading and Taking Notes for a 1984 Essay

Taking notes while reading the novel is an important part of all academic writing. There are many approaches to this, such as underlining and writing notes along the margin, keeping a separate notebook to copy down passages, phrases, or words. Whatever your preferred method, make sure you take good notes while reading 1984 . If possible, re-read certain sections you find meaningful for an essay assignment.

• Developing a 1984 Essay Thesis

Your thesis should be specific, covering only what you will discuss in your essay. For instance, if you are writing a 1984 essay about big brother you need to focus on who this character is and the role he has within the novel. A thesis statement may focus on the fear he casts on other characters just by being mysterious and omniscient. Or you can focus on his representation of the government, as someone who represents every branch and can change courses at his will.

• Creating a 1984 Essay Outline

The next step is to take your notes and opinions and arrange them in an outline. Start with the body portion. Each point should address a single argument in support of your thesis statement. Sub-points (lower levels) should include examples or evidence to support your main points. Fill in the sections for your introduction and conclusion and use your outline as you write the first draft.

• Writing the Body for an Essay On 1984

When you write the first draft, you should aim to get it done in a single sitting. Don’t worry about sentence structure, grammar, or vocabulary. Get your thoughts down on the page as quickly and as efficiently as possible. You will have time to make corrections in later drafts. Each body paragraph should focus on a single point and go in-depth. You may find that you repeat thoughts, but this can be corrected later on in the writing process.

• Writing the 1984 Essay Introduction

Next, work on the introduction. Following the same process described in step 4, write quickly and efficiently. Make sure you incorporate any background information the reader needs to understand your thesis. Place your thesis at the end of your introduction. Your introduction should be about 5 to 6 sentences long but don’t focus on this number while you write the first draft.

• Writing the 1984 Essay Conclusion

In your conclusion, you must summarize and synthesize the main points you brought up in the body of your essay. It should also reiterate your thesis statement. Don’t simply cut and paste your thesis from your introduction. You should restate it in different words. You want to remind your readers of your argument and explain how your points make your argument sound and logical.

• Revising Your First Draft After Setting It Aside

When writing your 1984 critical essay, you should set your paper aside for a few days before making your revisions. The process of revising requires you to rethink or reimagine your thesis and arguments. This is easier when you approach your first draft with a fresh mind. Don’t hesitate to rearrange, add, or remove content. To revise is to make your assignment stronger.

• Editing and Proofreading the Revised Draft

1984 Essay Topics to Consider

The following 1984 essay prompts cover a wide variety of essay types that you can apply to most assignments. We list several ideas to help you brainstorm and choose a topic that challenges you but won’t overwhelm you. Most of these 1984 argumentative essay topics can be researched online and at your school library. Just be certain that you use only trusted sources when you make your arguments:

1984 Surveillance Essay

There are many elements of the novel that lend themselves to a great essay about surveillance. From two-way television screens to wiretapping, this novel takes elements of surveillance to create a world within the novel where people are being watched by Big Brother and cannot hide their actions or words against an oppressive ruling government.

1984 Themes Essay

Related to issues of surveillance, a 1984 theme essay can be written on the dangers of totalitarianism, specifically to those that Orwell witnessed in Russia and Spain at the time. Orwell wished to warn the Western world about the dangers of these nation’s governments. At the time, the Cold War had not reached a point to cause alarm and the West was largely interested in the experiment. Orwell was more concerned with the oppressions and cruelties that he witnessed in communist countries.

Symbolism In 1984 Essay

The 1984 writing style lends itself to a lot of what Orwell wanted to introduce in his use of symbolism. One never knows if Big Brother is real, but posters are plastered throughout neighborhoods to remind citizens that he is always watching. It is impossible to know who rules Oceania but we do know that there is a singular entity that controls the country.

1984 Literary Analysis Essay

When starting the process of writing a 1984 analysis essay, you need to conduct an in-depth analysis of its literary elements. This can include a 1984 character analysis of the people that drive the story forward. It can also focus on things that aren’t living but present imposing environments, such as the streets and homes that are wiretapped and surveilled by cameras in every corner.

Rhetorical Devices in 1984

There are several rhetorical devices in the novel which can be the focus of an essay, including characters, conflict, foreshadowing, imagery, and metaphor. Consider the use of the eyes throughout the novel: Smith is suspicious of everyone looking at him because he is aware of the constant surveillance that goes on in the world around him.

If you have more 1984 essay questions, we are always glad to help. Our customer support team is available 24/7 all year and we have literary experts who know how to research, write, edit and proofread assignments that earn our customers the highest possible scores. Additionally, if you need custom 1984 essay ideas, send us your assignment details and we will provide you with original lists of topics to fit your needs exactly.

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — 1984 — Internal and External Conflict in George Orwell’s 1984

Internal and External Conflict in George Orwell's 1984

• Categories: 1984

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Words: 912 |

Published: Aug 1, 2024

Words: 912 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Table of contents

Surveillance: the internal and external conflict, loyalty: the battle between the self and the state, rebellion: the ultimate conflict.

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Related Essays on 1984

George Orwell’s novel 1984 warns of a totalitarian state in the future. The totalitarian state, Oceania, under the control of the Party and its leader Big Brother, poses a society where the government is always right and where [...]

George Orwell's 1984 is a dystopian novel that explores the themes of totalitarianism, surveillance, and the loss of individuality. One of the key themes in the novel is the absence of tranquility in the lives of the characters, [...]

In George Orwell's dystopian novel 1984, paradoxes play a crucial role in highlighting the contradictions and complexities of the oppressive society depicted in the story. These paradoxes serve to challenge the reader's [...]

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George Orwells 1984 - Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

1984 is a dystopian novel by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism and surveillance. Essays on this topic could delve into the themes of surveillance, truth, and totalitarianism in the novel, discuss its relevance to contemporary societal issues, or compare Orwell’s dystopian vision to other dystopian or utopian literary works. A substantial compilation of free essay instances related to George Orwell’s 1984 you can find at PapersOwl Website. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Dissecting Dystopia: George Orwells 1984 and the World of Oceania

George Orwell's "1984", a terrifying portrayal of dictatorship seen through the prism of a made-up superstate called Oceania, is still regarded as a classic piece of literature. Examining how Orwell's dystopian picture of the world mirrors larger concerns of power, surveillance, and the human spirit under authoritarian control, this article explores the complex world-building of Oceania. In the film "1984," Oceania is shown as an authoritarian society marked by ongoing conflict, constant government monitoring, and widespread public manipulation. Orwell painstakingly […]

1984 and Brave New World Comparison

As years pass by, human society has advanced in very unpredictable ways due to the evolution of ideas and technologies. It is somewhat cloudy to forseek what new advancements that may arrive in the future. In the 20th century, two dystopian writers had predicted the fate of the world that we live in today. The novels Nineteen Eighty-Four written by George Orwell and Brave New World written by Aldous Huxley both envisioned how society would end up as a dystopia. […]

1984 Compared to Today

In the world today, the internet is at the center of our actions. The internet and technology enable the recording of everything we do, which can be accessed by millions of people within a short time. This leads to the question of privacy in this age. In the novel "1984" by George Orwell, the main character, Winston Smith, and the rest of the population in Oceania are being surveyed. All their moves are followed with the help of telescreens purposed […]

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Winston against the Party in the Novel 1984

In 1984, the main character, Winston Smith goes through moments where he is in need; His needs consist of physiological needs, safety, and security needs, love and belonging needs, esteem needs, and self-actualization needs. Winston is the main character in his novel it follows his around during this time. In 1984 Winston has his physiological met. These physiological needs include; water, pleasure, and food. Winston had taken up his spoon and was dabbling in pale-colored gravy that dribbled across the […]

1984 the Soviet Union the Parallels

George Orwell is an author who wrote the book 1984 and Animal Farm, two famous Dystopian novels. But what is a dystopian novel? A dystopian novel is where the author writes about a society being oppressed or terrorized from a group of people or person(Jennifer Kendall). Typically in dystopian novels, we are shown a character who don’t agree with the government structure and tend to rebel against them. Although dystopian novels are fictional, it doesn’t mean that it can’t happen […]

1984 Surveillance Essay

George Orwell's 1984 writes of a dystopian society that has become severally oppressed by the methods ‘The Party' uses to control its society. The people do not think for themselves, and there is no independence from the government’s rules. One form that the party has control over everyone is with mind manipulation and constant surveillance, watching people actions and reactions to their messages that ‘The Party’ shares via the ‘telescreen’. A ‘telescreen’ is a two-way connection screen that people watch […]

Lack of Privacy in 1984 Essay

Privacy is a loose term in our world today because no one abides by it and the privacy of many people is invaded every day. People don’t even think about being watched when they’re posting personal experiences in their life on social media. Invasion of privacy is a serious issue concerning the Internet, as e-mails can be read and/or encrypted, and cookies can track a user and store personal information. Lack of privacy policies and employee monitoring threatens security also. […]

Main Themes in 1984

There are many Themes in 1984 however there are two that show themselves as the most important throughout the story: The disastrous effects of both the control of information and complete and total domination of the people, or Authoritarianism. These two themes show themselves many times throughout the entire story. The main Villain of the novel, Big Brother, exists to show the reader what will happen when one single organization or entity controls all information, and every other facet of […]

Nature and Animals 1984 Essay

In George Orwell's 1984, the reader follows a middle-aged man named Winston Smith. In Winston's society, people can be under surveillance at any time, in any place. The reader follows Winston through his affair with a woman named Julia, and the consequences that they face after. Throughout 1984, many motifs are represented, one of them being nature and animals. The motif of nature/animals demonstrates how Orwell connects characters in his book to animals. In 1984, the first time the reader […]

Parallels between a Novel 1984 and Soviet Union

George Orwell is a politically charged author who writes novels as warning issued against the dangers of totalitarian societies. The novel is dystopian literature. A dystopian society is the not so good version of an utopian society which is pretty much a perfect world. While an utopian society IS a perfect world, a dystopian society is the exact opposite as it is dehumanizing and unpleasant in regards to trying to make everything ideal. The novel 1984 by George Orwell is […]

1984 Literary Essay

In the novel 1984 war ment peace, freedom ment slavery, and ignorance ment strength. This novel very intriguing yet dark and twisted, the novel all began with an average man with an average job and an average life named Winston Smith, but what you don't know is how unruly the government is. The government believes everyone they have in their grasp they completely and utterly control, they have dehumanized humans to the point where they can't hardly think for themselves […]

Current Events Shaped Themes in 1984

Throughout history there have been dozens of examples of how the book 1984 relates to current events. A Prime example of this is Fidel Castro and 1960's Cuba, Throughout his rule he was responsible for housing many soviet missiles, and limiting the freedoms of his people. The only news allowed in cuba was the news that was verified by either castro himself or his higher up officers. This is an example of censoring/controlling the media. Throughout the book there are […]

George Orwell’s Fiction Novel 1984

With new technology and advanced programs, the government is gaining more power than one may realize. George Orwell’s fiction novel 1984, depicts Oceania’s control upon it’s party members thoughts and freedom showcasing the harsh effects that it had on its population. Too much control can often lead to social repression, Winston being a product of this repressed society. The cruelty Winston is faced with serves as both a motivation for him throughout the novel and reveals many hidden traits about […]

The Party and Power 1984

William Gaddis once said, “power doesn’t corrupt people, people corrupt power”; a truth that perfectly articulates the relationship between man and power. George Orwell’s prose novel, 1984, and James McTeigue’s theatrical film, V for Vendetta, are such quintessences of power abused by those in pursuit of reaching authoritative domination. They differ in textual form and perspectives however at their core, both texts are works of dystopian fiction and juvenalian satire against authoritarian style leaderships, depicting their respective protagonists as victims […]

A Political Novel 1984

1984 is a political novel composed for the humans below a totalitarian authorities and to give consciousness for the feasible dangers of it. George Orwell, the author, purposefully created the e book give emphasis to the rising of communism in Western countries who are nonetheless uncertain about how to approach it. He additionally wrote it due to having an insight of the horrendous lengths to which authoritarian governments that ought to possibly go beyond their power such as Spain and […]

The Power of Words and Rhetoric in 1984

In a lucid moment Winston found that he was shouting with the others and kicking his heel violently against the ring of his chair (Orwell 14). Winston Smith is an average man in the world of 1984, at least that is what readers believe at first glance. However, there is a hidden life under the surface of his skin, this being the brewing hatred he feels for the, otherwise, worshiped Big Brother. Smith meets an unlikely companion in a young […]

About the Hazard of Controlling Governments in 1984

Dystopian literature has been around for quite some time, shaping the minds of young readers. However, in the course of recent decades, it has turned out to be increasingly popular, especially after the turn of the century. In a time of fear and anxiety, the dystopian genre has become more popular in pop culture, in that they provide audiences with a different aspect of entertainment, while offering a sense of comfort and control. The world that young adults of today […]

The Tools and Actions of Totalitarianism in Cuba and “1984” by George Orwell

George Orwell’s book 1984 displayed an example of a real-life dystopia. Totalitarianism is shown in this communist-based society so ghastly that it coined its own term “Orwellian” in the dictionary. However, a country living in full surveillance with extremely nationalistic views in cookie-cutter world is not entirely fictional. Historical dictatorships are similar to Orwell’s telling of Big Brother, the man in control of Oceania’s economy and strictly enforced values. An example of such was the Cuban regime under control of […]

Wake up its 1984 again

War is peace; freedom is slavery; ignorance is strength In the book 1984 by George Orwell, Big brother is an omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent dictator of Oceania. Big Brother symbolizes the face of the Party and its public manifestation, which controlled people's thoughts, actions, knowledge and way of living. By using secret police, surveillance, torture, propaganda, misinformation, and corrupted languages to control all aspects of one's life. Even though the book was meant to be fictional, there is some elements […]

The Parallels of 1984 and the Soviet Union

George Orwell, a pen name for the author’s real name Eric Arthur Blair, is a man that had multiple professions, such as an essayist, imperial police officer, and a critic. However, he is best known as a novelist, writing such stories like Animal Farm, Burmese Days, and the main focus novel that will be talked about today, 1984. 1984 is the story about a man named Winston Smith, a man that lives in a totalitarian society where no one is […]

What did 1984 Steal from 1922

There have been many dictators in the history of the world. They have been mostly bad for the people of the society, reducing their ability to stand up for them self. Most dictators used fear and intimidation to scare their opponents into complying with them, but in 1984 they limited their vocabulary (newspeak) and twisted what they were saying to make it sound nicer (doublespeak) to get the people to comply with the rules. The Party in 1984 is influenced […]

The Party Control in 1984

1984 is a story of tragedy and warns of a dystopian future, which day by day looks like it is becoming closer to a reality. The story starts out with Winston Smith, a member of the Party, living inside the conglomerate super-nation Oceania. Everywhere Winston goes, he is being watched by the Party's leader, Big Brother, who is constantly monitoring to stop any and all rebellion. The Party controls everything and are trying to indoctrinate people, inventing a brand new […]

My 1984 Story

INTRODUCTION The Party did the people wrong and treated them poorly because the Party wanted them to do what they asked for and manipulating their minds. Orwell wanted to tell people how the Party treated other people and what they had to sacrifice in order to do what was told. For it to be one of the most powerful warnings that ever happened in the totalitarian society. George Orwell’s 1984 is a interesting and constructive book that is filled with […]

Dystopian Literature – 1984

The destruction of history causes people to obey the party more and become mindless objects to the party. The party imposed if all records told the same tale then the lie passed into history and became truth. Who controls the past ran the party slogan controls the future who controls the present controls the past And the through of its nature alterable never has been altered{ Orwell p.31}. It represent imagery and talks about how the party controls them and […]

1984 and Brave New Word: Literary Criticisms

Although they seem to portray two completely opposite dystopias, Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World and George Orwell’s 1984 are two sides of the same coin, as they both warn of the dangers of an all-powerful government. Both their personal lives and the social climate in which they lived in contributed in the shaping of their novels into the disturbingly brilliant pieces of literature that are praised today. Huxley’s childhood provides great insight into some of the many influences of his […]

The Shadow of 1984

When people read dystopian text they often include topics with darker views of our political structures. George Orwell's novel 1984 is about a place named Oceania in which the main character Winston, a member of the outer party,journeys into his end. He finds himself with these viewpoints no one else seems to have of how Oceania is runned and only continues to question and dig further until he is put to stop by the party. Although Orwell’s work is fiction […]

George Orwell’s 1984 Oppression

After reading and discussing the outcomes of high tech policing, I strongly take a stand with the critics of it. This is not only opinion, the data received by high tech policing technologies distort the true meaning of privacy and is a form of biased policing against poor and minority communities. Police are using high tech policing to target poor and minority communities. The main facts that support my claim are how high tech policing results in biases against minorities […]

What does the Paperweight Symbolize in 1984: Metaphor for Loss of Individuality

Introduction “Freedom is the freedom to say that two plus two make four. If that is granted, all else follows” (Orwell 81). George Orwell wrote a book called 1984 about Winston and how he lives in an oppressive government. The government manipulates them so much that they have no freedom and no way to express themselves. They cannot even say 2+2=4. Imagery, symbolism, and figurative language are used to convey the theme of the loss of individuality by totalitarianism. Metaphor […]

Decoding Dystopia: George Orwell’s 1984 Explored

Picture a world where your every move is watched, where your thoughts aren’t even your own. Welcome to George Orwell’s "1984," a novel that isn’t just a story but a warning bell that still echoes loudly today. Written in 1949 and set in a future that's now our past, Orwell spins a tale of a world caught in the grip of total government control, a place where the very idea of truth is as malleable as clay. At the heart […]

George Orwells 1984 Theme: Rejecting Political Apathy through Orwellian Insights

In George Orwell's iconic dystopian novel, "1984," the theme of rejection to political apathy emerges as a powerful undercurrent. Set in a totalitarian regime where Big Brother's watchful eye permeates every aspect of citizens' lives, the novel serves as a stark warning against the dangers of political passivity. As an environmental studies student, I find intriguing parallels between the oppressive political climate depicted in the book and the urgent need for active environmental engagement in today's world. Orwell's masterpiece provides […]

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How To Write an Essay About George Orwell's 1984

Understanding the context and themes of 1984.

When setting out to write an essay about George Orwell's "1984," it's crucial to first grasp the novel's historical and literary context. Published in 1949, "1984" is a dystopian novel that paints a chilling picture of a totalitarian regime. In your introduction, outline the key themes of the novel: the dangers of totalitarianism, the manipulation of truth, and the erosion of individuality. It's important to contextualize these themes within the post-World War II era during which Orwell was writing, as well as considering their continued relevance in today's society. This foundational understanding will inform your exploration of the novel's complex narrative and thematic structure.

Analyzing Orwell's Characters and Narrative Techniques

The body of your essay should delve into a detailed analysis of the novel's characters and narrative techniques. Focus on the protagonist, Winston Smith, and his journey of rebellion and subsequent downfall. Examine Orwell's portrayal of the Party, particularly the character of Big Brother, and the ways in which it exercises control over individuals. Discuss the novel's key symbols, such as telescreens, Newspeak, and the concept of doublethink, and how they contribute to its overall message. Analyze Orwell's use of language and narrative style, considering how these elements enhance the novel's themes and its impact on readers. Use specific examples and quotes from the text to support your analysis, ensuring each paragraph contributes to a comprehensive understanding of Orwell's vision.

Contextualizing 1984 in the Broader Literary Landscape

In this section, place "1984" within the broader context of dystopian literature and its historical background. Discuss how the novel reflects the anxieties of its time, including fears of fascism and communism, and how these concerns are woven into the fabric of the narrative. Consider the influences on Orwell's writing, such as his experiences during the Spanish Civil War and his observations of Stalinist Russia. Additionally, reflect on the novel's impact on later literature and culture, including its influence on the genre of dystopian fiction and its relevance in contemporary discussions about surveillance, privacy, and political power.

Concluding Reflections on 1984

Conclude your essay by summarizing the key points of your analysis, emphasizing the enduring significance of "1984" in both literary and socio-political contexts. Reflect on the novel's warning about the dangers of totalitarianism and the importance of preserving individual freedoms. Consider the novel's relevance in today's world, particularly in light of current technological and political developments. A strong conclusion will not only provide closure to your essay but also underscore the novel's ongoing relevance, encouraging readers to continue contemplating Orwell's warnings and insights in relation to contemporary society.

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Opinion It isn’t just about ‘1984’: Orwell’s essays powerfully resonate today

The author’s underappreciated essays about authoritarianism and political tribalism remain relevant..

Andrew Doyle is a comedian and the author of “Free Speech and Why It Matters” and “The New Puritans.”

In my continuing quest to avoid the clatter and smog of modern life, I often walk to the tiny village of Wallington , barely an hour from my doorstep, in the English county of Hertfordshire. Toward the end of Kits Lane is a thatched cottage, the former home of George Orwell , who lived there from 1936 to 1940.

Fans of “Animal Farm” (1945) will be delighted to know that there is a real-life Manor Farm just around the corner, and it was along one of these dusty lanes that Orwell was struck by inspiration at the sight of a little boy leading a cart horse. What would happen, he thought to himself, if the beast were to exercise its superior brawn and turn on its master?

It was while living in Wallington that Orwell perfected the style that secured his place among Britain’s greatest essayists. Essays from this period include “ Shooting an Elephant ” (1936), an account of one of Orwell’s most unpleasant memories from his time as a police officer in Burma (now Myanmar), “ Inside the Whale ” (1940), an overview of contemporary novelists and their aversion to direct political and social commentary, and “ Spilling the Spanish Beans ” (1937), an analysis of the Spanish Civil War. Orwell had been shot in the throat as a volunteer for the Poum anti-Stalinist militia in Spain, an injury that would weaken his voice permanently. But in his essays, his voice remains as strong as ever.

Although pundits discussing current events can be depended on to cite “Animal Farm” and Orwell’s other seminal novel “Nineteen Eighty-Four” (1949), they tend to overlook the contemporary significance of his essays. To my mind, Orwell’s essays offer a road map out of today’s political tribalism and creeping authoritarianism. They represent the summit of his achievements as a writer in terms of both their flair and intellectual heft, but they also provide us with the most direct means to engage with his worldview.

As the U.S. election approaches, commentators cling limpet-like to their political clans, making excuses for their party’s faults and interpreting every oppositional statement in the most negative light. All of this is strategic, of course, but it continues a trend that has been growing ever since Donald Trump’s victory in 2016. One of the most consistent features of Orwell’s essays is their insistence on the dangers of cleaving to one’s own ideological group irrespective of the circumstances.

In essays such as “Notes on Nationalism” (1945), Orwell exposes how this “with us or against us” mentality results in the outsourcing of individual agency. He is nervous about the tendency to assume “that whole blocks of millions or tens of millions of people can be confidently labeled ‘good’ or ‘bad,’” and he cautions against “the habit of identifying oneself with a single nation or unit, placing it beyond good and evil and recognizing no other duty than that of advancing its interests.” If we situate ourselves too dogmatically within the confines of “left” or “right,” he urges, we are no longer thinking for ourselves but parroting a script.

One wonders what Orwell would have made of today’s political disputes and how each side so often accuses the other of being a “threat to democracy.” Through his essays, he helps us understand how there is an authoritarian instinct within humankind that transcends party loyalties. Take “Writers and Leviathan” (1948), in which he posits that to “yield subjectively, not merely to a party machine, but even to a group ideology, is to destroy yourself as a writer.”

This is not to suggest that he was politically capricious; Orwell’s fundamentally left-wing values remained consistent throughout his life, but they were underpinned by a traditionalism and a love of his country that today might be called socially conservative. This perspective is most powerfully expressed in his essay “The Lion and the Unicorn” (1941) and his book “The Road to Wigan Pier” (1936).

Orwell admitted his misgivings about criticizing his “own side” but had the courage to do so anyway. According to his biographer D.J. Taylor, Orwell had remarked to the philosopher A.J. Ayer, regarding “Animal Farm,” that “he was worried that the book would be a godsend to British conservatives.” Despite the inevitability of such perceptions, Orwell did not falter when it came to this much-needed rebuke of leftist tyranny.

In his review for the Observer of the British political scientist Harold Laski’s “ Reflections on the Revolution of Our Time ” (1943), Orwell censures the author for his “unwillingness to admit that Socialism has totalitarian possibilities.” Some of the most caustic commentary is reserved for what he describes as the “anti-Blimps,” the haughty left-wing intelligentsia who are irretrievably bourgeois and unpatriotic. Nothing much has changed in that regard.

Our present-day culture wars are characterized by evasions and euphemism, with activists continually redefining terms and denying that they are doing so. We have seen epithets such as “racist” and “misogynist” so promiscuously applied that they have been rendered almost meaningless. A series of “phobias” have emerged — “transphobe,” “homophobe,” “Islamophobe” — pathologizing differences of opinion rather than identifying authentic instances of fear or hatred. Orwell was particularly alert to this kind of rhetorical prestidigitation.

This is no more evident than in the maelstrom of politics. Legitimate criticism of Trump has been undermined by overwrought claims that he is a “fascist.” The June cover of the New Republic even featured a composite image of Hitler and Trump along with the title “American fascism.” Needless to say, Trump is similarly prone to this kind of absurd hyperbole: Not only has he branded Kamala Harris a “fascist,” but he has also termed his rival “a Marxist, communist, fascist, socialist.”

Orwell cautioned against the danger of misapplying “fascism” as a catchall smear even as World War II was underway. In his “As I Please” column for Tribune in March 1944, he said he had heard “fascism” being “applied to farmers, shopkeepers, Social Credit, corporal punishment, foxhunting, bullfighting” and other topics, including “Youth Hostels, astrology, women, dogs and I do not know what else.”

In “ Politics and the English Language ” (1946), Orwell notes that the word “fascism” has “now no meaning except in so far as it signifies ‘something not desirable,’” and he emphasizes the importance of mutually agreed definitions. This argument desperately needs to be restated today. The comparison of mainstream viewpoints to an ideology that drove authoritarian mass murder in the past century is unhelpful and historically illiterate.

Orwell’s essays provide a refreshing counterpoint to such histrionic discourse. For him, clarity is paramount. He is forever railing against the tendency of political activists to disguise their true intentions with imprecise language, or to resort to boilerplate in lieu of effective argument. One thinks of the thought-terminating clichés of our own time: “right side of history,” “trans women are women,” “God made Adam and Eve, not Adam and Steve.”

When confronted with this kind of sloganeering and its highhanded implication that no further discussion is required, one cannot escape the sensation that Orwell described so pointedly in “Politics and the English Language”: “The appropriate noises are coming out of his larynx, but his brain is not involved as it would be if he were choosing his words for himself. If the speech he is making is one that he is accustomed to make over and over again, he may be almost unconscious of what he is saying, as one is when one utters the responses in church.”

In “ The Freedom of the Press ,” his proposed preface for “Animal Farm,” Orwell anticipated a concept now known as “ preference falsification ,” coined by the economist Timur Kuran in 1995. Orwell describes those who are content to submit to authority, to modify their stated beliefs in terms of what is popular at any given time. He calls this the “gramophone mind,” a metaphor for those who willingly play the record of the moment, irrespective of their genuine opinions.

With the intolerance reflected by 21st-century “cancel culture,” this kind of self-censorship is perhaps even more commonplace. It is also apparent among Republicans today who previously were among Trump’s most excoriating critics but now happily promote him for president. Likewise, many Democrats who until recently were openly skeptical of Harris’s abilities are suddenly determined to fawn over her political prowess.

Ultimately, however, it is Orwell’s strident criticism of authoritarianism that resonates most clearly with today’s concerns. When leading political figures are calling into question the validity of the First Amendment, we need to pay attention. Recently, former secretary of state John F. Kerry described the First Amendment as a “major block” to preventing people from spreading “disinformation.” And during the vice-presidential debate on Oct. 1, Democratic candidate Tim Walz claimed that “hate speech” was exempt from First Amendment protection.

Not to be outdone, Trump on Oct. 10 called for the federal government to withdraw the broadcast license of CBS News (even though no such license exists) because of its misleading editing of an interview with Harris. And at a rally in Texas in 2016, he threatened to “open up the libel laws” to make it easier to sue his critics.

The shortsightedness of leading figures in both parties on the subject of free speech would not have escaped Orwell, who reminds us that “if you encourage totalitarian methods, the time may come when they will be used against you instead of for you.” In the pessimism of his writing as Europe was engulfed in war, Orwell imagines that “we are moving into an age of totalitarian dictatorships” and laments that so few of his fellow novelists are actively attempting to resist it. All these years later, at what seems like a civilizational crossroads, we could do a lot worse than emulate his kind of courage.

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Common Module – Essay on 1984 (Multiple Examples)

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ESSAY WITHOUT ADAPTIVE MATERIAL ANDJUST SYLLABUS: Texts shape the audience’s understanding of individual and collective human experiences, as they reveal the complexity of human qualities and emotions. George Orwell’s dystopian novel Nineteen Eight-Four (1949), represents how a totalitarian authority controls individuals by eradicating all personal freedom and individuality. Furthermore, Orwell demonstrates how within this political system, individuals are unable to establish genuine, loving relationships. Ultimately, Nineteen Eight-Four reveals how the power of storytelling influences an individual’s identity and their experience of the world. Hence, Orwell explores an individual’s interaction with the world and how this affects their lived experiences. Orwell portrays how individuals are restricted in their freedom of thought and expression within the control of a totalitarian government. Orwell represents Winston’s restriction of individuality through the kinesthetic imagery during “Two Minutes Hate”, “In a lucid moment Winston found that he was shouting with the others and kicking his heels violently against the rung of his chair.“, which shows how Winston is overwhelmed into complying with society’s collective emotional reaction of rage towards Goldstein, even though he is not personally invested in the exchange. However, the capitalisation, “DOWN WITH BIG BROTHER” reveals how Winston is able to privately access his personal truth of disagreement towards the Party’s ideology and express his desire to overcome their beliefs. Winston’s desires to overthrow the party are revealed when he confesses his motives to O’Brien in the anaphora, “We are enemies of the Party. We disbelieve Ingsoc. We are thought criminals.”which reveals Winston’s newfound sense of individuality, as he is able to openly express his complete rejection of the Party’s expectations, and admit his unwillingness to obey their expectations in favour of free thinking. Despite Winston’s ability to freely admit his thoughts, the Party inevitably is able to oppress this through violence, as conveyed by O’Brien’s violent imagery, “If you want a picture of the future, imagine a boot stamping on a human face—forever.” This symbolises how the Party disregards the individual experiences of its citizens and utilises fear to intimidate society into a collective acceptance of their ideology. Winston is ultimately shown to surrender to this collective acceptance as upon his release from the Ministry of Love, he unquestioningly rejoices for the Party’s military achievements in the auditory imagery, “He was with the crowds outside, cheering himself deaf.” The juxtaposition between his final compliance and his earlier wary participation in Two Minutes Hate portrays how Winston’s individuality has been eradicated, to ensure his full compliance to the Party.

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