1984 Part 1 Questions

Responses must be handwritten

Analysis of Part 1, pp. 3-114. Must include textual support for all answers. I.e., quotes from the book. You must write a 3 sentence response to each question and have one quote for support (include page numbers for quotes/passages) except for questions 6 and 7 that require 1/2 page written response for each and also making a list prior to writing about it.  Must be specific and detailed in your response. People have been studying this book for over 75 years! 

1. Do you think Winston Smith is in danger of being arrested at the end of Part One? List what "crimes" he has committed and explain why you think he may or may not get caught.

2. Winston is fully aware of the risks he is taking. Why do you think he is being so reckless? 

3. How does the government control the population? Define the "sacred principles" of Ingsoc-Newspeak, doublethink, mutability of the past-and explain how these principles are carried out.

4. What does the short exchange between Winston and Mrs. Parsons and her children tell you about family relationships in the society?

5. What does Winston's conversation with the old man in the prole district tell you about the prole population in general?

6. Literary Concept: Paradox. A paradox seems absurd or contradictory but contains important truth. The three slogans that bombard the population are reprehensible contradictions, but do show what it takes to survive in the society. Explain how each expresses a fundamental truth about an aspect of the society. First answer the "consider" items below. Then make notes and, lastly, each group member writes a 1/2 page response on their own.

For #6 Consider:

-how a continuous foreign war ensures domestic peace

-how the proles are both free and enslaved

-how Syme's intelligence will ultimately cause his death, whereas Parson's stupidity will guarantee his safety 

7. Making Connections: Of all the horrors described in 1984, explain which one you think would be the hardest to bear. First discuss this as a group. Make a list of all of the horrors. Note why each would be so bad. Then on your own, write a 1/2 page response as to which one is the worst and why.