Tag: Dehumanize humankind

What, according to Orwell, does it mean to be human? How does the governing body in 1984 exploit certain tendencies, weaknesses and even strengths that human beings possess in order to, ironically, control and dehumanize humankind? Based on Winston’s fate, what is Orwell ultimately arguing (advocating, criticizing and/or warning against)?

With a 1000 word essay with 3-4 body paragraphs (along with an introductory and concluding paragraph), respond to the prompt:

In 1984, the protagonist, Winston, attempts to “stay human” in the face of a dehumanizing, totalitarian regime. What, according to Orwell, does it mean to be human? How does the governing body in 1984 exploit certain tendencies, weaknesses and even strengths that human beings possess in order to, ironically, control and dehumanize humankind? Based on Winston’s fate, what is Orwell ultimately arguing (advocating, criticizing and/or warning against)?

Use citations from 1984 (in MLA format) to serve as your evidence. 1984 should be the only source you mention