Seniors are mandated to read 1984, a very controversial book in their English classes during the Spring semester. It teaches students about the dangers of totalitarianism from the perspective of a fictional character who lives in a totalitarian society.
1984 was written by George Orwell. He published the book in 1984 as a warning against totalitarianism. The rise of power of dictators like Hitler and Stalin inspired Orwell to write 1984. This book has won many awards and according to the Greatest Books it ranked 8th on the 50 top books of the last 100 years.
The book is about a fictional country named Oceania that is governed by a very controlling party. The government made the citizens think that they have to listen to big brother or they will be killed. Big brother is always watching you so if you do one thing wrong you will be caught. Winston Smith, the main character, tests these boundaries and ends up going to prison and being beaten until almost death.
Students had varied opinions on the book. Senior Mile Tapia said, “The book was controlling. I think that the book might be a reflection of the future. Technology is advancing and it is creepy that on social media ads will pop up for things I am thinking of buying.” Whereas senior Oscar Catalan said, “I think the book brings awareness to society because some of the events in the story are happening today. An example of this is our government controlling us through propaganda.”
