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Winston's Struggle in 1984's Transformation

Mar 25, 2025

Notes on Lecture: 1984 - Book 3, Chapter 4

Overview

  • Setting: Winston in his cell, slightly more comfortable.
  • Activities: Winston can now eat and bathe.

Key Themes

  • Acceptance of Reality: Winston is being coerced into accepting the altered past and other truths dictated by the Party.
  • Doublethink: Winston is practicing doublethink as he struggles between his intellectual acceptance and emotional rebellion.

Winston's Internal Conflict

  • Intellectual vs. Emotional:
    • Intellectually, Winston accepts the Party's truths.
    • Emotionally, he still calls out for Julia, indicating unresolved feelings.

O'Brien's Interrogation

  • O'Brien's Question: Asks Winston about his feelings towards Big Brother.
  • Winston's Response: Admits he hates Big Brother.

Consequences

  • Room 101: Due to his admission, Winston is ordered to be taken to Room 101.

Character Transformation

  • Mind vs. Heart:
    • Before arrest: Winston pretended to conform.
    • After arrest: He starts believing the Party's truths.
    • O'Brien's demand: Winston not only needs to surrender his mind but also his heart.

Independence and Rebellion

  • Calling for Julia: Acts of independence by calling for Julia, showing emotional rebellion.
  • Ultimate Freedom: Winston views dying while hating the Party as his last act of freedom.

Conclusion

  • O'Brien's Goal: Beyond intellectual capitulation, the Party desires Winston's emotional allegiance and love for Big Brother.
  • Transformation Significance: Complete transformation is expected by the Party; only when Winston loves Big Brother will his transformation be complete.