The Role of Society and Rebellion in 1984 by George Orwell (1949)

Expanding the Roles:
1984 by George Orwell is a dystopian novel set in a totalitarian society ruled by Big Brother. The novel follows Winston Smith, who begins to rebel against the oppressive regime, questioning the nature of truth, freedom, and individualism. For literature students, 1984 serves as a critical exploration of the dangers of totalitarianism, surveillance, and the suppression of individuality.

• Totalitarianism and Societal Control:
  Orwell explores how totalitarian governments manipulate truth and control every aspect of society. Students can analyze how the Party’s control over language, history, and thought represents the extreme lengths a regime can take to maintain power.

• Rebellion and the Desire for Freedom:
  Winston’s rebellion represents the desire for personal freedom and truth in an oppressive system. Students can examine how Winston’s struggle for individualism in a society that demands conformity explores the theme of rebellion and the human need for autonomy.

What We Learn:
1984 provides literature students with a critical study of political power, individual rights, and the consequences of societal control. Orwell’s novel is essential for understanding how governments can manipulate truth and stifle rebellion through surveillance and repression.