1984 Winston Character Analysis

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Finally, the relationship between Winston and O’Brien is dysfunctional and fractured due to the lack of equality, which can be demonstrated when Winston virtually worships and blindly follows his supposed idol O’Brien. According to the Oxford Online Dictionaries, an idol is “a person or thing that is greatly admired, loved, or revered” (www.oxforddictionaries). In other words, an idol is someone who is adored, often blindly and excessively. For example, in the novel 1984, the protagonist Winston blindly adores O’Brien for no apparent reasons. O’Brien is an Inner Party member who possesses a very intimidating physique: tall, muscular and good-looking. Winston is envious considering O’Brien exudes authority and appears like everything Winston …show more content…

“Immediately beneath the telescreen, in such as position that anyone who was watching at the other end could read what he was writing, he scribbled an address, tore out the page and handed it to Winston” (165-166). O’Brien gives Winston his address on a piece of paper right in front of the telescreen, which indicates that O’Brien has privileges since relationships, especially private ones, are frowned upon by the Party. Nevertheless, Winston immediately accepts the invitation and visits O’Brien’s house with Julia even though the mere act of visiting O’Brien’s house is enough to get them arrested. This is odd considering Winston has heard no verbal confirmation of the Brotherhood existing. He simply assumes that O’Brien is a member of the Brotherhood and is a rival. Moreover, when Winston visits O’Brien’s flat, O’Brien is able to turn off the telescreen. This is a power showcase in front of Winston since it is illegal and impossible for anyone who is not in the Inner Party to turn off telescreens in Oceania. Winston is automatically drawn to O’Brien’s charisma and ability to take action even though it involves severe

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