satire 1984

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Satire in 1984

INTRODUCTION:

In Nineteen Eighty-four, George Orwell introduces Communism regime through the community of Oceania. Communism is a socioeconomic  structure and  that promotes the establishment of an , ,  , and single party control (Wikipedia). Most of party members are proles, working class. They are uneducated and unaware of what is happening; thus they are completely under the Party’s control. Therefore, the party then can remove any possibilities of rebellion. Through the novel, Orwell uses satire to warn us about surveillance, physical and psychological intimidation, and isolation. Satire, a mode of writing that exposes the failings of individuals, institutions, or societies to ridicule and scorn. Satire is often an incidental element in literary works that may not be wholly satirical, especially in comedy (answers). Orwell, through the characters, predicts what our future will be like if the totalitarian regime remained in power.

SURVEILLANCE:

       Winston Smith, the main character in the novel, is somehow different than other characters, even though he is a Party member. Since Winston is an intellectual man, he is able to discern the truth from the falsehood; thus he stands against the Party. He resists the party, resists the stifling in his life of being controlled. George Orwell satirizes the surveillance through these facts.

  • He dreams about a girl ripping off her clothes. It represents the idea of throwing away the shackles that are imposed by the Party and Big Brother.
  • He writes “down with Big Brother” in his diary. Now he commits thoughtcrime that he will be captured by the thought police sooner or later. 
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  • Telescreens and portraits of Big Brother are everywhere; therefore, it is impossible to not being heard and seen. Party can check on citizens whenever and wherever, since each individual is coded: ““Smith!” screamed the shrewish voice from the telescreen. “6079 Smith W! Yes, you! Bend lower please! You can do better than that”” (1,3,39) . No one is able to betray the Party. “BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING YOU ”
  • There is no freedom of speech in community of Oceania. An example to this fact is Winston. He is incapable of expressing his personal ideas about the Party. Moreover, Winston is ...

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