Lecture Notes: George Orwell's 1984

Overview

• 1984 is about totalitarianism: government control over every aspect of life, including private thoughts and beliefs.
• Orwell's view based on the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany.
• The book imagines life in totalitarian England.

Setting

• Takes place in London, depicted as a dilapidated and depressing city.
• Scarcity of food, clothing; city dominated by government buildings.
• War is ongoing but its purpose is unclear.
• Constant government surveillance: Big Brother, Thought Police, cameras everywhere.
• Severe restrictions on personal freedoms (e.g., friendships, love, sex).
• Mandatory activities and propaganda.

Main Character: Winston Smith

• 39 years old, works for the government.
• Lives a lonely, dreary life.
• Starts a secret diary, something punishable by death, to express his hatred for the society.
• Unknown historical past due to government alteration of records.

Supporting Characters

Julia

• Attractive young woman, works in the same building as Winston.
• Winston initially hates and fears her but is also fascinated.
• They begin a secret love affair which brings them happiness despite its dangers.

O'Brien

• A member of the Inner Party (higher-up in the government).
• Intelligent, someone Winston yearns to be friends with.

Key Plot Points

• Julia slips Winston a note saying, "I love you", sparking their love affair.
• Their secret relationship thrives in the oppressive regime.
• Winston wants active rebellion; sees potential in O'Brien.
• They visit O'Brien's house to join the rebellion.
• O'Brien pretends to be a rebel but betrays them to the Thought Police.
• Winston and Julia are arrested, tortured in the Ministry of Love.
• Winston undergoes severe torture and eventual brainwashing.

Themes and Messages

• Total government power: Wanting people to genuinely believe falsehoods (e.g., 2 + 2 = 5).
• Detrimental effect of totalitarianism: Both Winston and Julia are broken down completely.
• Rebellion and Integrity: The government's ultimate victory over individuality and integrity.
• Despite the bleak message, 1984 shows the extreme measures required to control individual thought.

Conclusion

• 1984 demonstrates the horrifying extent of a totalitarian regime's power.
• It serves as a cautionary tale about the loss of personal freedoms and individual integrity under such systems.