Description

Prescribed Text for HSC 2019-2023 – Common Module: Texts and Human Experiences

Hidden away in the Record Department of the sprawling Ministry of Truth, Winston Smith skilfully rewrites the past to suit the needs of the Party. Yet he inwardly rebels against the totalitarian world he lives in, which demands absolute obedience and controls him through the all-seeing telescreens and the watchful eye of Big Brother, symbolic head of the Party. In his longing for truth and liberty, Smith begins a secret love affair with a fellow-worker Julia, but soon discovers the true price of freedom is betrayal. With an Introduction by Thomas Pynchon ‘The book of the twentieth century . . . haunts us with an ever-darker relevance.’ Independent ‘His final masterpiece . . . enthralling and indispensable for understanding modern history.’ Timothy Garton Ash, New York Review of Books The Authoritative Text.

About the Author

George Orwell (1903–1950) is one of England’s most famous writers and social commentators. He is the author of the classic political satire Animal Farm and the dystopian masterpiece Nineteen Eighty-Four. He is also well known for his essays and journalism, particularly his works covering his travels and his time fighting in the Spanish Civil War. His writing is celebrated for its piercing clarity, purpose and wit and his books continue to be bestsellers all over the world.