1984

Question 1

Winston Smith likes old things. Why? Give examples

Answer 1

Wiston is drawn to old things because he likes memory and history. His love of old antique items is an attempt to reconnect with the past and unlock the party’s secrets. Due to the party having control over the citizens and essentially making them one, Winston also likes the thought of having something that he can call his own and being able to be his person.

• He thought the paperweight he received was so beautiful and had never seen anything like this. It makes him curious about what life was like before the party. The coral inside the paperweight inside the glass represents Winston’s life as so many obstacles prevent him from gaining access to knowledge of the past.
• The fragment of nursery rhyme represents the nostalgia that Winston was searching for.

Question 2

How does Ingsoc justify its rule? (Justify, not enforce

Answer 2

Ingsoc justifies its rule by creating false evidence to cover tracks. Everything that was taken away (love, freedom, etc.) was justified by brainwashed sayings and fake evidence. They justify their actions as necessary for the greater good of society and the protection of the state. It argues that y controlling the thoughts and actions of its citizens, it can create a utopian society where everyone is equal and happy when in reality the party’s control is oppressive and restrictive.

Question 3

Explain doublethink. Give examples.

Answer 3

• Doublethink is a concept of believing two contradictory beliefs simultaneously, while knowing you are believing both of them.
• Eg 1. 2+2=5/2+2=4
• Eg 2. War is Peace; Freedom is Slavery; Ignorance is Strength
• For example, the government of Oceania uses doublethink to convince its citizens that the country is at war with either Eastasia or Eurasia, depending on which is most politically convenient at the time. The government also uses doublethink to convince its citizens that their lives are improving and that the government is doing a good job, despite the widespread poverty and oppression that exist in the society.

Question 4

Compare Winston’s and Julia’s attitudes toward defying the Party (Ingsoc)

Answer 4

.Winston has a more logical and philosophical approach towards defying the party because he finds Big Brother inhumane/unjust and is concerned about society as a whole. In contrast, Julia is only interested in her emotional and sexual feelings being limited by the party. She wants the freedom to pursue her own choices, which only benefits her personally with a spirit more about enjoying living in the moment. Julia did not seem fearful of defying, rather excited by it (adrenaline seeking?)