Study Help Essay Questions

1. Although O'Brien confirms the existence of Big Brother, he refuses to confirm or deny the existence of the Brotherhood. Discuss the role of the Brotherhood in the dynamics of Oceania's society and in the novel.

2. Orwell wrote 1984 as a warning. Explain what he was warning people about. Be sure to examine the influence of political climates in the world during the time when Orwell wrote.

3. Explain in what ways Julia differs from Winston. Consider her behavior, her motivation, and her goals.

4. 1984 is rife with irony (that is, things being different from what is expected) and doublethink (being able to absolutely believe in two opposing ideas simultaneously). Divide a piece of paper into two columns. On one side, list as many examples of doublethink as you can; on the other, list examples of irony. Discuss what you think Orwell's purpose was in using both.