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Power In 1984

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In George Orwell's dystopian novel "1984", the Party delicately balances cooperation and conflict by instilling fear while fostering unity among its citizens to maintain its power, which ultimately destroys their will to live. Orwell portrays humanity's vulnerability to manipulation and control through Winston's failed attempt to escape the oppressive regime of Big Brother. The novel depicts a totalitarian regime that controls all aspects of citizens' lives, using primarily war and surveillance to instill fear to maintain power. Initially working together to oppose the Party, Winston Smith and Julia, once captured, eventually turn on one another. This is because they are in an environment that fosters a culture of distrust and fear, which pits …show more content…

When Winston experiences happiness, he no longer feels the need to contribute to the Party (Orwell 150). Winston's character shifts from being anxious to optimistic with the want to continue living when he experiences love, happiness, and community for the first time. The Party understands they must limit individualistic activities and instead force solidarity through collaborative war efforts. Organizations such as The Spies and The Junior Anti-Sex League can create a sense of agency as citizens may feel they have a say in how the wars turn out and the Party's success. Moreover, slogans like "Big Brother is watching you" (Orwell 5) display careful balance as they instill a false sense of community among its people, with the idea that they have a brother who has their back. However, it also implies they will always have a figure who is watching them. It ensures people are still in a state of fear and threatens them with conformity. Despite the underlying conflict and paranoia that permeates society, the Party can maintain the appearance of harmony and stability through the cultivation of a sense of solidarity and shared

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