1984 Summary

George Orwell's "1984" is a dystopian novel that depicts a totalitarian society under the rule of the Party and its leader, Big Brother. The story follows Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the Party who works at the Ministry of Truth, where he alters historical records to fit the Party's propaganda. Winston becomes disillusioned with the oppressive regime and secretly rebels by starting a forbidden love affair with Julia and seeking out the Brotherhood, an underground resistance movement. However, the Party's surveillance and control are absolute, and Winston and Julia are eventually captured by the Thought Police. Winston undergoes brutal torture and brainwashing at the hands of O'Brien, a Party enforcer, ultimately betraying Julia and losing his sense of self. The novel concludes with Winston's complete submission to the Party, demonstrating the terrifying power of totalitarianism. "1984" is a profound warning about the dangers of unchecked political power, surveillance, and the erosion of truth and individuality.