1984 George Orwell Resonance Essay

The Haunting Resonance of Orwell's 1984:
Rebellion, Surveillance, and the Power of Language in a Modern World
In a world where surveillance and control are on the rise, George Orwell's 1984 remains a haunting reminder of the potential consequences of surrendering individuality and privacy to the powers that be.The dystopian masterpiece 1984, transports readers to an oppressive London, Oceania. Here, the Party, led by the enigmatic Big Brother, reigns supreme, enforcing a climate of constant surveillance and control. In this bleak society, personal autonomy is crushed, independent thought is extinguished, and conformity is demanded at all costs. Amidst the suffocating atmosphere of oppression, the protagonist Winston Smith embarks on a clandestine

In 1984, Orwell describes the omnipresent surveillance and monitoring mechanisms employed by the Party, stating, "There was of course no way of knowing whether you were being watched at any given moment" (Orwell, 1984, p. l 3). This quote emphasizes the constant state of surveillance and the uncertainty it creates. Orwell's portrayal of pervasive surveillance in 1984 reflects his view of a dystopian future where individuals are constantly monitored, creating a climate of fear and control. It highlights the Party's desire for complete dominance and the suppression of individual freedom. MacAskill discusses Edward Snowden's leaks, revealing the extent of the NSA's surveillance programs, stating that "Snowden's disclosures … unveiled a new level of covert mass surveillance on a global scale" (MacAskill 2013). The article reveals the shocking reality of modern surveillance practices, mirroring Orwell's predictions in 1984. The revelations by Snowden exposed the vast scope of government surveillance, raising concerns about privacy and civil liberties in the digital age. This similarity highlights the potential dangers of unchecked surveillance power and the erosion of individual privacy rights. Another instance of surveillance in 1984 is exemplified by the telescreens, which not only transmit propaganda but also monitor individuals at all times. Winston realizes that "the telescreen received and transmitted simultaneously" (Orwell, 1984, p. 6), indicating the constant surveillance and lack of privacy. Orwell's inclusion of telescreens in 1984 illustrates his apprehensions about the invasive nature of surveillance technology. The telescreens symbolize the Party's control over information and their ability to manipulate and monitor citizens. It reflects Orwell's critique of a society