1984 Read-along

I first read 1984 in high school (oh, so many years ago!). When Ti at Book Chatter suggested a read-along, I was in. She's organized us with some target dates and questions to think about. 

If you'd like to join us, here's the scoop.

Optional Schedule

• Read Part 1 by December 13
• Read Part 2 by December 20
• Read Part 3, finish by December 31

Here are some questions to ponder:

• Why does Winston keep a diary? Given the presence of the Thought Police, the constant surveillance, and the like, is it not dangerous?
• What do you think of when you are first introduced to the ministries?
• Ministry of Truth (news and entertainment, education)
• Ministry of Peace (war)
• Ministry of Love (law and order)
• Ministry of Plenty (economic affairs)
• What about this motto? How does it compare to what we are experiencing today?

War is peace.

Freedom is slavery.

Ignorance is strength.

• In 1984, the language spoken is Newspeak. It’s a language that is designed to limit the range of human thought. Also called Double Think. It’s a paring down of meaning, for example Uncold instead of warm. It also uses excessive abbreviations. Can you detect hints of this in today’s world? Provide an example.
• The purpose of the Two Minutes Hate in George Orwell’s 1984 is to channel the citizens’ frustrations and emotions towards a common enemy, ultimately ensuring loyalty to the Party and preventing any rebellious thoughts or actions. In relation to our media sources today, is this something that is actually happening now?
• Who is Big Brother?