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The plot of 1984 is all about emotion. Huh? What we mean is, you can remember the events that take place in George Orwell’s story if you can keep track of main character Winston’s journey from paranoia to hope to fear to agony. The 60second Recap has more … just don’t say we promised you a happy ending.

Video Transcription:

One of the creepiest things about 1984 is that there comes a point early on in this book when you the reader almost become part of the story. You experience what Winston Smith is experiencing. That’s why this plot is as much about emotions, as it is events.

Paranoia.

We meet main character Winston Smith. We learn that he lives in a rigorously controlled society in which everyone and everything is subject to the government’s observant eye. We learn that Big Brother is watching.

Hope.

We learn that Winston has a vision that things could be different—that there could be a revolution, a rebellion against the government (aka the Party). He begins keeping a diary. He searches for allies.

Fear.

We learn that Winston considers himself a marked man. It’s only a matter of time before he betrays his true feelings and the Thought Police get him.

Hope.

Winston meets Julia, a fellow rebel. They begin a love affair. They dream of a life without constant war and lies and brutality.

Paranoia.

Winston and Julia get in deeper with a guy named O’Brien. They’re prepared to rebel against Big Brother, but they know it’s unlikely they won’t get caught.

Agony.

They’re caught—betrayed by a man they thought was their friend.

Agony.

They’re tortured.

Agony.

They betray each other.

Agony.

They crumble. They stop thinking.

The end.