George Orwell's Paradoxes In 1984

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Through impracticality, logic is discovered. This state of mind carries on throughout George Orwell's novel, 1984 in more ways than one. For example,“Ignorance is Strength” (16). This idea is just one aspect of Oceania’s Party Slogan. While this may seem contradictory these two utterly opposite concepts truly go hand in hand. This particular paradox stands as the most important in 1984 due to its distinct contrast, yet eye opening affiliation, and repetition throughout the novel. The Party Slogan consists of three paradoxes in which the citizens must understand and stand by, “War is Peace, Freedom is Slavery, Ignorance is Strength” (16). While these ideas may seem contradictory, any thought that seems to challenge them may be considered a thoughtcrime and result in punishment.These ideas are enforced by Big Brother, the said Ruler of …show more content…

This particular idea sums up Orwell’s main idea throughout the novel. Due to Oceania’s blindness and willingness to follow order, Big Brother is granted the ability to destroy the past. With the ability to destroy the past, The Party’s main goal is to then manipulate the future. They do this by using their strength to destroy things such as memories, opinions and even language, “Were destroying words-scores of them, hundreds of them, everyday” (51). Some may argue that Freedom is Slavery stands out as the most important paradox in 1984 due to its subliminal message that The Party does not want the citizens to have freedom. This can be perceived through the concept of thought crimes throughout the novel. The Party does not want Oceania to have the freedom to argue or challenge their beliefs, therefore they enforce a negative understanding surrounding crime. “Thoughtcrime does not entail death; though crime is death (27). This paradox does hold a strong position throughout 1984, yet not the most

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