Comparing Authority Figures in Paradise Lost and 1984
This section analyzes the portrayal of authority in John Milton's "Paradise Lost" and George Orwell's "1984", drawing intriguing parallels between God and Big Brother as all-powerful figures.
While seemingly different on the surface, both authority figures play similar roles in their respective narratives. Big Brother is described as "infallible and all-powerful" yet lacks any physical presence in the story. Similarly, Milton depicts God as omniscient and omnipotent, though in a more benevolent light given the religious context of the 17th century.
Orwell uses religious imagery and language when describing Big Brother and the Party's doctrines, suggesting Big Brother functions as a god-like figure for the characters. This raises questions about the nature of paradise and authority - is ignorant bliss preferable to painful awareness?
The text explores how perceptions of authority are shaped by social conditioning. Rebellion thus becomes an act of reclaiming autonomy and humanity in the face of oppressive power structures.
Quote: "The mind is its own place, and can in itself make a hell of heaven and a heaven of hell." - John Milton, Paradise Lost
Highlight: Both texts present the idea of "paradise" as a state of ignorance rather than true perfection. Tragedy arises from becoming aware of the restrictive nature of authority.
Vocabulary: Omniscient - All-knowing; having complete or unlimited knowledge and awareness
Example: The use of religious imagery for Big Brother, such as naming characters after priests theParsonsfamily and instituting rituals like the "Two Minutes Hate"