1984 Final Essay
1984, though it is almost 70 years old, feels maybe more familiar to us in 2016 than
Orwell would’ve thought possible. There are many themes that one could talk about regarding
this novel. Listed below are five possible topics to respond to for your exam.
1. Orwell wrote 1984 in response to the totalitarian governments of the 20th Century, like
Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union. How is the novel’s criticism of this type of
government still relevant today?
2. Is Winston Smith a hero?
3. Orwell was worried about the dumbing down of the English language and the
repercussions it could have on thought. What elements of Newspeak do you recognize
in the language used by politicians and advertisers today?
4. Winston Smith, Julia, and all citizens of Oceania live under constant surveillance. How
does this lack of privacy affect them? Do you feel that we live under similar conditions
today?
5. In recent years, television programs like Big Brother, Survivor, The Real World, The
Biggest Loser, and other reality shows became extremely popular forms of
entertainment. What do you think Orwell would have thought of this type of creation?
In a well-developed essay with an introduction and thesis, body, and conclusion, defend
what you think about this topic. Use specific examples from the text in addition to examples
from your own experience. All textual examples (both quoted and paraphrased) must be cited
in MLA parenthetical format. This essay must be 1,000-1,250 words in length.
Due Date: Sunday, May 15, 2016 at 11:59 pm