Comparing Language In 1984, Born A Crime, And Julius Caesar

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Comparative Essay: The Power of Language in 1984, Born a Crime, and Julius Caesar Language is a profound and influential tool that shapes perceptions and controls thought in many literary works. It can influence emotions, dictate actions, and consolidate power. In George Orwell's 1984, Trevor Noah's Born a Crime, and William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar, language is a powerful tool that authorities and people of greater power use to control thoughts, manipulate perceptions, and influence behaviour. This demonstrates that language is the most crucial medium for leaders to wield power. Controlling Thoughts: In George Orwell's 1984, the Party uses language to control thought and limit free expression. The creation of Newspeak is designed "to make …show more content…

He recounts how his prayers in English were believed to be more effective: "Which made my prayers the best prayers because English prayers get answered first[...] my grandmother would say, 'That prayer is going to get answered. I can feel it" (Noah 40). This belief in the superiority of English prayers shows how language shaped the perception of worth and power, reflecting broader societal hierarchies. In Julius Caesar, Antony's speech manipulates the crowd's perception of Brutus and the other conspirators. He describes Caesar's wounds with emotional imagery: "This was the most unkindest cut of all; For when the noble Caesar saw him stab, Ingratitude, more strong than traitors' arms, quite vanquished him: then burst his mighty heart" (3.2, 183-186). Antony's rhetoric turns public opinion against the conspirators, demonstrating the power of language to shape perception and incite action. Influencing Behavior: The ability of language to influence behavior is a key theme in these works. In 1984, the Party's control over language extends to controlling behavior. By limiting the words available to express dissent, the Party makes rebellion nearly