Desire/Language/Truth: a study of power relations in Orwell's Nineteen Eighty-Four

Abstract

Among other things, Nineteen Eightv-Four has been described as an apocalyptic novel, and received as a warning for future generations since the power which totalitarian regimes enjoy, destroys man’s spiritual and physical existence. These approaches each have their value, but Orwell seems to be indicating something much more subtle. The theorist Michel Foucault claims that power is what shows itself most and so hides best. In this light Orwell’s text reveals what is hidden in the nature of society. The structures of power pervade the society of Oceania in all its dimensions, in particular, language, sexuality, and politics. An analysis of these dimensions is essential to understanding Orwell’s thesis; by exploring the relations between them, the novel reveals the inner structure of collective bodies, and throws into question the concept of individuality in society, as it is created and shaped by power relations. MLA style sheet has been followed throughout the thesis.