
History is something the citizens of Oceania can refer to, something they can reflect on and compare to the time they are living in. In 1984, the Party understands that history defines its people. People look at history so that they can get reminders of what worked out and what did not, and what ended up being good and what ended up being bad. People look back and learn about history so that they are aware of mistakes and things to avoid. However, the Party controlling the past ends up giving it power. The Party wants to control the past because by controlling history and memories, they are able to control their citizens and gain power.Īt first sight, controlling the past might not seem too important since most people do not think history is crucial to their everyday lives. The Party has limited language, so rebellious thoughts could not be expressed, and are working towards controlling the past. They have figured out how to take away their citizens’ privacy by watching them through tele-screens, brainwashing them to be blindly loyal, and even claiming control over their bodies and mind. In George Orwell’s 1984, the Party aims to control all of the citizens of Oceania.


Mark’s School Gray Colloquium Summer Read for 2017 The Power in Controlling the Past: Orwell’s 1984 & Big BrotherĮditor’s Note: 1984 was the St.
