1984 by George Orwell (Penguin Modern Classics)

Description

“1984” is a dystopian novel written by George Orwell, published in 1949. The novel is set in a totalitarian society ruled by the Party, led by the enigmatic and omnipresent figure known as Big Brother. The story is narrated through the eyes of Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the Party who begins to question the oppressive regime.

The world depicted in “1984” is characterized by pervasive government surveillance, censorship, and manipulation of information. The Party controls not only the actions but also the thoughts of its citizens through mechanisms such as Newspeak, a language designed to eliminate unapproved thoughts.

Winston’s rebellion against the Party’s control and his relationship with Julia, a fellow dissenter, form the central narrative of the novel. As Winston becomes increasingly aware of the harsh realities of his society, the novel explores themes of political oppression, psychological manipulation, and the consequences of unchecked government power.

“1984” is considered a classic work of literature and a cautionary tale about the dangers of authoritarianism. The term “Big Brother” has become synonymous with intrusive government surveillance, and the novel’s themes continue to resonate in discussions about privacy, censorship, and the nature of power.