The Marxist ideology was first put forth by Karl Marx. Marx was a well-known German philosopher, economist, and political theorist, who desired a world that was favorable for the working class. He saw how poorly workers were being treated in many capitalist nations and he wanted to change this. Under Marxist policies, all workers would be treated equally and big, private businesses would not exist. These radical and revolutionary ideals would later become very popular in countries like Russia, Cuba, Vietnam, North Korea, and China. When reading 1984 through a Marxist lens, there are many things that stand out, especially in the area of social classes. In this novel, there are 3 main classes: The proles (the common people), the Inner Party, …show more content…
Horatio, for instance, is regarded as the closest and most trusted friend of Hamlet. Such a relationship could never develop between members of separate social classes in "1984". Furthermore, members of lower social classes are portrayed as being quite useful, important, and intelligent in Shakespeare's play. This was shown when the guards warned Hamlet about the ghost that had been appearing. They gave Hamlet details and helped him to eventually communicate with it (the ghost). Them doing this was a key point in the story and really delineates the idea that anybody can be useful, regardless of their social status. Another example is when Hamlet is dying and he says, "Oh God, Horatio, what a damaged reputation I’m leaving behind me, as no one knows the truth. If you ever loved me, then please postpone the sweet relief of death awhile, and stay in this harsh world long enough to tell my story." This quote shows how important Horatio's role is in the story. The way that non-ruling class people are treated in Hamlet, directly contrast the way that they're treated in 1984. It is obvious that the common people in Hamlet live far more fulfilling lives. This a bit ironic when you consider the fact that "Oceania" is influenced by some of Karl Marx's principles while Hamlet's country is