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Utopia Vs Dystopia

Decent Essays

Growing up in America, the idea of a land without original thought is unimaginable. This haunting theme is more commonly found in dystopian literature than in the real world. A dystopia is defined as “a society characterized by human misery, as squalor, oppression, disease, and overcrowding” (“Dystopia”). Many dystopias brainwash their people into believing the laws and regulations that are set in that country are normal. Unfortunately, dystopias are commonly ruled by a leader who is unjust and uses his or her power to a dangerous and unlawful extent. In the book 1984 by George Orwell, the citizens of Oceania are forced into blindly following the government’s plan. Despite the physical abuse the people experience from their government it …show more content…

In 1984, Big Brother is a supreme leader who watches over those who live in Oceania. He is looked upon as an important figure and the citizens. They are under constant surveillance and cannot have their own independent thoughts or ideas. In every room there is a telescreen mounted on the wall with Big Brother observing the people. Winston describes, “the telescreen received and transmitted simultaneously. Any sound Winston made, above the level of a very low whisper, would be picked up by it; moreover, so long as he remained within the field of vision which the metal plaque commanded, he could be seen as well as heard” (Orwell book 1 chapter 1). If any citizens disagreed with the government or spoke poorly about the regulations, the thought police would come take them away. The thought police control the society and are in charge of making sure everyone agrees with Big Brother and the government. The people are thankful because this results in no arguments and the illusion of peace. This eerie concept is masked in the propaganda of a friendly face watching over you. They are told, “big brother is always watching you” (Orwell 3). This gives a more familial feel to the government, normalizing the system and making it harder to resist. This utopia uses the language of brotherly protection and truth to make everyone feel protected. 1984 is a dystopian society full of propaganda, misery, and manipulation. Although to the blind eye it may look as if it is a utopia, on

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