First Look at 1984
Learning Objective
I can identify the key themes and context introduced in the opening of 1984.
Key Concepts
The term "Orwellian" comes from George Orwell's novel 1984, which depicts an oppressive society under a totalitarian government.
Orwell was concerned with how ideologies spread, emphasizing the importance of language in shaping our thoughts and opinions.
In "1984," the government uses techniques like doublespeak and Newspeak to control language, manipulate meaning, and limit critical thought, leading to doublethink.
Practice Questions
This lesson includes 12 practice questions to reinforce learning.
View questions preview
1. What is George Orwell's real name?
2. According to the video, what is the most common, but incomplete, way that the term 'Orwellian' is used?
3. What is 'doublespeak' as it is presented in the video's discussion of 1984?
...and 9 more questions
Educational Video
What "Orwellian" really means - Noah Tavlin
TED-Ed