1984 Group

Question:

sandkcox07
sandkcox07
Student
High School - 12th Grade

How would you explain both Parson's and Syme's acceptance of obvious propaganda in "1984"? Discuss the reasons.

Okay, I read over the other question that is basically  EXACTLY the same but I did not understand it and I was hoping that someone else could give me an answer...

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Posted by sandkcox07 on Monday February 9, 2009 at 12:34 PM and tagged with 1984, parsons, propaganda, syme.

Answers:

  1. pippin1313
    pippin1313 Teacher
    High School - 12th Grade

    eNotes Editor

    Both Parson and Syme are loyal to the Party but for different reasons and it is this loyalty that causes them to accept overt propaganda with no questions.

    Tom Parson is unintelligent and accepts what he told without question because he lacks the brains to do otherwise. It is easier for him to be told the 'truth' rather than think of it himself. Because he is just one of the masses, Parson just goes along with what is doctrine, even so far as praising his daughter for turning him in when he utters "Down with Big Brother" in his sleep. Winston mistakenly thinks that Parson will never be arrested.

    Winston is however, correct about Syme being in danger of being vaporised. Syme is intellingent and savvy. He understands that loyalty is his only protection and so is highly enthusiastic about developing the newspeak dictionary. His major downfall is that he understands why newspeak is vital to the Party and its maintenance of power. He accepts propaganda because the consequences of doing otherwise would mean his instant arrest.

    Sources:
    http://www.enotes.com/1984/characters

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    Posted by pippin1313 on Tuesday February 10, 2009 at 12:42 PM