1984 and Why Its Important
Should 1984 be included in the freshman curriculum at Montville Township High School? The prophetic novel, 1984 by George Orwell, is a piece of literature which is modeled on the formerly communistic Soviet Union. In 1984, there is a society that exists, Oceania, where all human bonds and finer human emotions are illusional. This visional novel should clearly be an addition to the ninth grade curriculum. 1984 pronounces its strong theme, uses magnificent symbolism, and demonstrates the life of a society under a totalitarian government. These traits are what makes a novel a classic. The following paper will explore why 1984 should be included in the curriculum through theme, alienation, and symbolism. There is a major theme and a minor theme in this novel, both which are important messages to understand as well as to realize. The major theme is the horror of a dictatorial and totalitarian government. Philip Rahv stated in his literary criticism of 1984, "Big Brother, the supreme dictator of Oceania." (340) This quote clarifies 1984's totalitarianism and undisputed dictatorship. The entire novel paints a horrifying picture of what a fanatical, state-controlled socie
I believe that 1984 is a novel that should be included in the freshman curriculum for many reasons. The reader learns about the communist Soviet society and their beliefs, learns how to be open to other's opinions, and learns about the disadvantages of totalitarianism. Also the reader learns about present day governments, past communistic governments, and how these governments have an affect on society. 1984 has come and gone, but George Orwell's prophetic, nightmarish novel is timelier than ever. It is one of the most non-ephemeral novels I have ever read. 1984 is a great modern classic and no one can deny this novel's power, its hold on the imaginations of whole generations, or the power of its admonitions. The last reason why 1984 should be added to the curriculum is because of its brilliant symbolism and allusions to Soviet Russia. Winston Smith, the undisputed protagonist, is a Party member who is unable to come to terms with the delusional society created by Big Brother's ruling Party. In today's society, Smith is a common name; hence Winston is to represent all mankind. Big Brother, the dictator of Oceania, is clearly modeled on Joseph Stalin. Emmanuel Goldstein, the Enemy of the People and of the State of Oceania, is modeled on Leon Trotsky, a man branded as an anti-revolutionary in the USSR. Through these three characters sy
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Approximate Word count = 913
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)
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