Similarities Between V For Vendetta And 1984

In a dystopian society under complete government control, most people blindly follow the crowd, but a few individuals realise the corruption for themselves and make a stand against their governments. Both the movie V for Vendetta based on the graphic novel by Alan Moore and 1984 a novel written by George Orwell take place in these types of dystopian societies, and feature protagonists who retaliate against their governments. The characters Winston from 1984 and Evey from V for Vendetta are two of these protagonists, they share a similar past and storyline, however both turn out very different in the end based on their societies and characteristics.

Both Evey and Winston had their parents taken away and likely murdered by their governments,

Evey met a man who called himself V. V dedicated his life to getting justice for both himself and others who had also suffered at the hands of the government. Before having met V Evey did not agree with the government but had never considered rebelling. Winston had already been committing small acts of rebellion, like writing in a diary and committing thoughtcrime. It was he met a young woman named Julia whom he fell in love with that he became more passionate about his cause. Julia did not think any change could be made, but she did inspire Winston realize what he had been missing out on in life because of his government. It was this realization that drives him to take for dramatic

While they are both tortured and imprisoned, they come out very different people. Winston comes out a mindless drone of the government. He gives into his captors betraying himself and even betraying Julia. Early in the novel Winston says to Julia “ If they could make me stop loving you – that would be the real betrayal” (Orwell #). The fact that Winston says this and does stop loving her highlights his cowardice. During his betrayal of Julia Winston tells his torturers “...Do it to Julia. Not me. I don’t care what you do to her.”(#). This further establishes Winston as a meek and timid character. While he does show bravery in the beginning he is not able to face his fears and fails to hold true to himself and Julia. A truly strong and determined person would not let go of his or her beliefs even in the face of fear or even death. Every, however, emerges a stronger person, than she was previous to her imprisonment. Before she showed fear, was unsure of herself, and often reluctant to act. After her imprisonment, she transitions into a brave individual who is not afraid to do what is right no matter what the cost, even if it means giving up her life. While in captivity, she tells her captur “Thank you, but I’d rather die behind the chemical sheds”(V For Vendetta). She would rather give up her own life than giving away V’s location. Evey’s loyalty to her friend, and refusal to succumb