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IGNORANCE IS STRENGTH
March 1st, 2009 by aevans75
I have just finished the first 104 pages of 1984. I am pretty pleased thus far with Orwell’s writing style and the overall themes that have been presented in the novel. Orwell’s ideas are fairly classical; however, considering the time period in which he wrote, they were necessary to be voiced. Orwell’s plot and characters keep the reader’s interest effectively. I easily align with Winston’s character; however, for the majority of part one I was conflicted. I agree with all of Winston’s ideas and his questioning of the ideals of the Party, yet I am often angered by his inability to act and stand up for what he believes.
As an American reader it is easy to understand the fears and injustices Winston feels. Our values of freedom, individuality, and personal success are all demeaned by the structure of the Party. As I progress through the novel I find myself begging Winston to spark rebellion and be the martyr that we envision our founding fathers were. However, the novel makes you wonder, “Would I be able to stand up?” As one mulls over Orwell’s work it is easy to say we would fight the socialist unity of the Party and demand our rights, but in reality I am not so sure. Civil disobedience seems fashionable and appropriate; however one must ponder if it is really what’s right. Like Winston, without ever experiencing freedom in our lives, how could we demand it? How would we be sure we were being oppressed, that the ideals of the Party were not best for the common good?
These answers are what I hope Winston finds and thus myself in the next section of the novel. I hope Winston can figure out that the key to succesful revolution is elightenment. I hope the lies and fraudulant claims of the Party are exposed, as Winston and his “comrades” realize that ignorance is really weakness and their real freedom is worth fighting for.
P.s.: The celibacy of the Party nation is quite interesting. Party members are the exact foil of Dorian Gray. Hedonism could never exist in their society. It is also interesting that the women are so indoctrinated with hate for sexual pleasure. Without companionship and any source of entertainment, it would seem the people of Oceania would go insane.
Posted in Final Project- Nineteen Eighty-Four | | | 0 Comments
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