Mr. McCarter
English 214-I01
December 1, 2014
Essay #3
Orwell’s satire shaping what a future could become
George Orwell’s 1984, depicts a time of totalitarian and communism rule. Where ever you are big brother is watching you. Winston, Orwell’s main character in the satirical novel is a man struggling with his true identity in this gloomy world. Orwell, constructing this novel after the ending of World War II writes a satirical story that is also a warning to what can become of the world. Throughout 1984, George Orwell uses satire in his writing through literary elements; theme, imagery, symbolism and irony.
1984, being written at a time where Stalin and Hitler were forces to be reckoned, many knew what could happen if these two ever trusted their way into power. Orwell uses satirical themes in his book to relate to what was going on at present time. Totalitarianism was something to be feared. In this novel where it was a complete totalitarianism society, Winston struggles with ‘Big Brother’ having complete control. “His pen had slid voluptuously over the smooth paper, printing in large neat capitals—DOWN WITH BIG BROTHER (18)”. The fight over ones true identity was also a theme that arose throughout the novel. Orwell mocks the ability for people to not become individuals …show more content…
In his novel, he uses symbolism to take his point to the next level. The biggest form of symbolism through the book is Big Brother. In the story, Big Brother takes on a frightening term, the ignorant of the society endeared him, “The little sandy-haired woman had flung herself forward over the back of the chair in front of her. What sounded like ‘My Savior!’ she extended her arms toward the screen. (16)”. Big Brother represented the figure that was always watching you, making sure that everything you did was