1984

1984 (also published as Nineteen Eighty-Four: A Novel)

• Genre: Dystopian; social science/political fiction
• Originally Published: 1949
• Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 1090; grades 11-12, college
• Structure/Length: 3 parts, 23 untitled chapters, appendix; approx. 11 hours on audio
• Protagonist and Central Conflict: Bureaucrat Winston Smith longs to see the fall of the oppressive totalitarian government under whose close watch he lives, but fear and betrayal obstruct his hopes for change.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Sexual and violent content

George Orwell (pseudonym of Eric Arthur Blair), Author

• Bio: 1903-1950; English novelist, critic, essayist; known for themes that warn against imperialism and authoritarian control
• Other Works: “Shooting an Elephant” (1936); Animal Farm (1945)
• Awards: Prometheus Hall of Fame Award (in 1984 for 1984 and 2011 for Animal Farm)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Unit:

• Constant Surveillance Is Oppressive
• Totalitarian Power Diminishes Individuality
• Propaganda Manipulates Emotion and Discourages Individuality



STUDY OBJECTIVES: In accomplishing the components of this Unit, students will:

• Develop an understanding of the characteristics of dystopian literature; analyze the ways in which 1984’s setting and circumstances exemplify a dystopia.
• Read/study short paired texts and other resources to deepen understanding of themes related to Totalitarian Power, Individuality, and Propaganda.
• Prepare and present a slideshow comparing the impacts of Totalitarianism on fictional and real individuals.
• Analyze textual elements such as detail, character development, and atmosphere and construct essay responses connecting these elements to the novel’s themes.