Grade 12 Academic English
1984 Essay Assignment

Choose one of the following topics and write a 1200 word essay. Your essay must follow proper MLA formatting and be structured correctly. You must use textual evidence to support your argument in the form of properly cited quotations. I would like to see a draft of your essay on October 19th, and your final copy is due Friday, October 26th.

Consider the role of technology in the text. What does Orwell suggest is the relationship between advanced technology and absolute power? Why would Orwell include technology as part of the dystopic environment of Oceania?


What is the role of romance and sex in this text? Why does Winston suggest that having sex with Julia is both a personal and a political act?


Trace a pattern of imagery and explain how it develops one of the major themes of the text. Consider images of violence, technology, pain, control, etc.


Explore Orwell’s use of foreshadowing and its importance to the story. How does he indicate to the reader that Winston’s fate is doomed?