1984, George Orwell

H. Humanities
Bowers
June 5, 2011
Orwell à l’école
    For my last out-of-class reading assignment, it was strongly suggested by one of my friends to read the book 1984, written by George Orwell. The novel was actually written in 1949, which was thirty years prior to the date this book was held in. Many will recognize the name George Orwell from his other quite controversial books Homage to Catalonia and the even more popular, Animal Farm (Which I was saddened to hear we would be reading this year as it would have been the 4th year reading in a row since 7th grade. Thankfully we ran out of time!) I have many thoughts about this book, mostly good. There are reasons why this book would work very nicely if it were to be read in a classroom setting, and of course reasons why it would be better left at the library.
    Now that I think back, actually, there are very few reasons that would not support the reading of 1984. The book was no fast read, first off. The 393 pages were so concentrated with messages and emotion, especially near the end, that it would be no easy feat finishing this book all in one sitting. Also, maybe it was only me, but there was a point near the middle of the book that seemed a bit monotonous. There was little action, and I became frustrated at the main character (No spoilers!). For a while I lost interest in the story all together.
    But these issues are minimal, and in the end I do think that 1984 would fit well if it were to be read in high school classes. It sets a near perfect example of what the world looks like when run under a totalitarian government. It’s almost impossible finishing this book without developing a strong fear and hatred towards it. I couldn’t stop thinking about how emotionless and brainwashed people had become as a result of the thought police and newspeak, and that was absolutely terrifying. This is exactly the reason why 1984 should have a part in high school curriculum. It’s one thing to have negative feelings toward totalitarianism, but this book pushes the simple idea off the edge into the deep, treacherous canyon.