Introduction
The dystopian novel 1984 by George Orwell paints a somber picture of an authoritarian future ruled by the mind-controlling Thought Police of the governing Party and the ubiquitous Big Brother. This frightening vision is centered on Winston Smith, the story’s protagonist, a common citizen who launches a clandestine uprising against the Party. The question is whether Winston fits Orwell’s definition of a hero—an ordinary individual seeking to transform an oppressive social system despite the inevitable possibility of failure, as demonstrated by his actions throughout the story.
Winston as a Hero Through Orwell’s Lens
Winston Smith seems to embody heroism in many aspects, as per Orwell. Winston is a low-level member of the Outer Party and enjoys a typical existence. He keeps an illegal diary where he notes his private thoughts and memories, which is a blatant violation of the Party’s control of history and truth. Still, unlike his friends, he harbors ideas of revolt against Big Brother (Zuraikat & al-Nawasreh, 2021).
Another act of rebellion is his relationship with Julia, which includes violating the rigid sexual codes of the Party. Winston’s determination to find love and his ability to speak his mind reverberate as acts of resistance in a society where human emotions are stifled. Additionally, Winston’s efforts to discover the truth, demonstrated through his relationships with Mr. Charrington, the owner of an antique shop, and later with O’Brien, a purported Brotherhood member, represent his ongoing fight to overthrow the repressive societal structure (Zuraikat & al-Nawasreh, 2021).
The story of 1984, however, is less about a successful uprising than it is about how authoritarianism crushes free will. Despite Winston’s initial boldness and rebellious nature, his eventual fall is tragic rather than heroic (Orwell, 1949). In the third act of the book, the Party’s Thought Police detain, torture, and brainwash Winston.
After being subjected to severe psychological blackmail, he betrays Julia, forcing them to break up under duress, and ultimately falls in love with Big Brother, the ultimate representation of the system he had previously detested. Winston’s surrender does not exhibit the fortitude and tenacity usually associated with valor. He instead appears as a symbol of defeat and a warning against the oppressive might of authoritarian regimes. Instead of the tyrannical system being overthrown, his quest ends with his total submission to it.
Winston’s Admirability and Potential for Emulation
In the end, one’s definition of heroism will primarily determine whether Winston Smith may be regarded as a hero (Zuraikat & al-Nawasreh, 2021). Winston’s early deeds and intentions may, in fact, qualify him as a hero if heroism is defined as the pursuit of noble goals against oppressive regimes, regardless of the result. In a culture that is meant to stifle individual thought and independence, he stands in for these qualities. On the other hand, if heroic defiance necessitates success or even just steadfast opposition until the very end, Winston falls short. His ultimate submission emphasizes the terrible reality of total power and the impossibility of an individual opposing it on their own.
Winston may indeed be a tragic hero, in Orwell’s own words. His tale, including his forced betrayal of Julia under intense torture (Orwell, 1949), serves as an example of the fruitless battle waged by ordinary people against cruel systems that disregard morality. Winston Smith’s bravery is tragic rather than triumphant or uplifting, serving as a harsh warning of the devastating might of authoritarian governments (Zuraikat & al-Nawasreh, 2021). Orwell, however, forces us to understand the significance of group resistance and the unstoppable strength of the human spirit—principles essential to any true heroism—strictly through this tale of loss.
Conclusion
In conclusion, in Orwell’s novel 1984, Winston Smith represents a nuanced view of heroism and stands at the nexus of heroism and human fallibility. Winston embodies Orwell’s definition of a hero—someone who bravely challenges an oppressive system—as an “ordinary guy.” His early disobedience and desire for individuality were traits of a hero, as seen by his rebellious and independent deeds. However, the course of his voyage, which ended in capitulation, forces one to reevaluate his heroism.
References
Zuraikat, M. J., & al-Nawasreh, H. (2021). The Party of Evil Genius in Orwell’s 1984. Rupkatha. Journal on Interdisciplinary Studies in Humanities, 13(3). Web.
Orwell, G. (1949). George Orwell, 1984. G Orwell.