Nineteen Eighty-Four: Key Concepts and Character Analysis

Part A: Multiple Choice (14 points)

1. Who is the enemy of Oceania? C) Emmanuel Goldstein
2. What does Winston do at the Ministry of Truth? B) Corrects historical records
3. What is the name of the main character in 1984? C) Winston Smith
4. Who is Big Brother? C) The leader of the Party
5. Who is Julia? C) Winston’s love interest
6. What is the name of the secret police? A) Thought Police
7. What is doublethink? B) Thinking two opposite things at the same time
8. What is Newspeak? B) A simplified language created by the Party
9. What is the purpose of Newspeak? C) To limit the ability to think freely
10. Where do Winston and Julia meet in secret? C) In a room above Mr. Charrington’s shop
11. Who is Mr. Charrington? C) A shopkeeper who later betrays Winston and Julia
12. What happens to those who disobey the Party? C) They disappear or are re-educated
13. What is Room 101? D) The place where they face their worst fear

5. Thinking against the Party is called thoughtcrime.

Analysis Questions

1. The Party’s Control Over the Past

   The Party says, “If you control the past, you control the future…” (96). What do you think this means? Do you believe it’s possible to control people by changing history?

   This quote means that by rewriting history, the Party controls what people believe and how they understand the world. If people don’t know the truth about the past, they can be manipulated to accept any version of reality. Yes, it is possible to control people by changing history, because it shapes their beliefs and loyalty.

2. Characterizing Winston Smith

   How would you characterize Winston Smith based on what you know so far? Does he fit the conventional image of a heroic figure?

   Winston Smith is a quiet, thoughtful man who questions the world around him. He is not physically strong or brave in the traditional sense, but he resists the Party in his own way. While he doesn’t fit the typical image of a hero, his courage to seek truth makes him a different kind of hero.

C. Complete the Sentences (10 points)

Complete the sentences with the right words (there are two extra words):

1. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth.
2. The worst place for prisoners is Room 101.
3. Big Brother is always watching you.
4. Winston and Julia fall in love secretly.

Letter from Winston to Julia

To: Julia

Subject: Stay Strong

My dearest Julia,

I know this week has been harder than usual. The streets are filled with banners and shouting crowds, and every eye seems to be watching closer than ever. I’ve spent most of my time at the Ministry of Truth, rewriting old news to fit the Party’s latest lies. The Two Minutes Hate has become more intense, and I can barely fake my enthusiasm.

I miss you. Every moment apart is torture, but we must stay cautious. I suggest we meet again next Sunday, at the clearing in the woods, just after dusk. The patrols are lighter there, and the trees offer some protection. Bring nothing. Speak of nothing until we are safe.

Until then, remember: they may control our bodies, but not our minds.

With love,
Winston