Dystopian
Literature
What is a utopia?
• The prefix u- means “no” or “not”
• The suffix -topia means “place”
• A utopia is a society with ideal perfection in
laws, government, and social living conditions.
• It is often associated with peace, serenity, joy,
and a sense of calmness. People that live in a
utopia are very content.
What is a dystopia?
• The prefix dys- means “bad” or “difficult”
• To repeat what we just learned, -topia means
“place”
• A dystopia is a society characterized by misery.
It can be considered the opposite of a utopia.
• It is often associated with war, fighting, pain,
and fear.
Examples of Dystopian Literature
And of course…
Common Characteristics
of Dystopian Novels
• Propaganda is used to control the citizens of society.
• Information, independent thought, and freedom are
restricted.
• A figurehead or concept is worshipped by the citizens of the
society.
• Citizens are perceived to be under constant surveillance.
• Citizens have a fear of the outside world.
• Citizens live in a dehumanized state.
• The natural world is banished and distrusted.
• Citizens conform to uniform expectations. Individuality and
dissent are bad.
• The society is an illusion of a perfect utopian world.
Is this society a utopia or a dystopia?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1BQPV-iCkU