1984 by George Orwell
In a totalitarian future society, a man whose daily work is re-writing history tries to rebel by falling in love.
Summary
1984 is a dystopian novel by George Orwell published in 1949. The novel is set in Airstrip One, formerly Great Britain, a province of the superstate Oceania, whose residents are victims of perpetual war, omnipresent government surveillance and public manipulation. The story follows the life of Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the ruling Party who is frustrated by the omnipresent eyes of the Party, and its ominous ruler Big Brother. Smith rebels by entering a forbidden relationship with a fellow employee, Julia, and joins a secret revolutionary organization called The Brotherhood. He then learns of the true nature of his society and the government's plan to control the population through various mind control techniques.
Interpretation
1984 is a warning about the dangers of totalitarianism and the power of government surveillance. It is a cautionary tale about the power of language and the power of the state to manipulate and control its citizens. It is a story of individual resistance against a powerful and oppressive state.
Who is this book for?
1984 is suitable for adults and young adults alike. It is a classic work of literature that is still relevant today.
Keywords
Dystopian, Totalitarianism, Surveillance, Language, Resistance