George Orwells klassiker nyoversat for første gang siden den oprindelige udgivelse i 1949. "Den, der kontroller fortiden, kontrollerer fremtiden; den, der kontroller nutiden, kontrollerer fortiden." Alt hvad du tænker og gør, registreres og rapporteres til Tankepolitiet. Det er år 1984. Winston Smith bor i Oceanien, hvor Partiet og den allestedsnærværende Big Brother overvåger borgerne ned til mindste detalje. Winston arbejder i Ministeriet for Sandhed, hvor han redigerer gamle dokumenter og aviser, så historien altid fremstår i overensstemmelse med Partiets sandhed. Men Winston længes efter frihed, og han opdager hurtigt, at den trang er livsfarlig. "1984" er et stærkt forsvar for tankens frihed, og George Orwells dystopi er mere aktuel end nogensinde. Eric Arthur Blair (1903-1950), der var bedre kendt under pseudonymet George Orwell, var en britisk forfatter og journalist. Han huskes i dag bedst for romanerne "Kammerat Napoleon" ("Animal Farm") og "1984" ("Nineteen Eighty-Four") – to værker, der kendetegnes ved Orwells store bevidsthed om social retfærdighed og stærke modstand mod totalitarismen. Hans kulturelle indflydelse på både politik og populærkultur er tydelig at se selv den dag i dag.

1984

One of the most celebrated classics of the twentieth century, this cautionary tale of a man trapped under the gaze of an authoritarian state is more relevant now than ever before. “Thoughtcrime was not a thing that could be concealed for ever. You might dodge successfully for a while, even for years, but sooner or later they were bound to get you.” Winston Smith works in the Ministry of Truth—or Minitrue as it is called in Newspeak—where he alters newspapers and reports to follow the arbitrary dictates of Big Brother’s propaganda. Beneath his outward conformity, however, Winston dreams of sharing his treasonable thoughts andbreaking through the loneliness in which he lives. Thus he takes his first dangerous steps, writing a diary of his doubts and then falling in love with a woman of the Party, the beautiful and brave Julia. They know their love is doomed, but Julia says, “They can make you say anything—anything—but they can’t make you believe it.” But in Oceania, there is no possibility of solidarity, rebellion, or love—and the Party can reach anywhere. First published in 1949, this disturbing novel that George Orwell wrote during a time of great social and political unrest centers on the consequences of totalitarianism, mass surveillance, and repressive regimentation of people and behaviors within society. This classic of dystopian fiction contributed new words that became part of common English usage, including Big Brother, doublethink, newspeak, and thoughtcrime. The adjective "Orwellian" has come to mean government deception, surveillance, and misleading terminology.Cover illustration & Design by Derek Anderson and Joel Anderson. © Anderson Design Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Licensed by Anderson Design Group.

"Alle dyr er lige, men nogle dyr er mere lige end andre." Da dyrene på mr. Jones’ gård gør oprør og tager magten fra menneskene, er det med en vision om frihed og efter devisen, at alle dyr skal være lige. Især grisene ser muligheder i denne nye orden på gården, og med tiden bliver det tydeligt, at selv de mest ubøjelige idealister kan korrumperes. Snart udviskes grænsen mellem dyr og menneske. "Animal Farm" er en fabel om en revolution, der kører af sporet, og om utopiske ambitioner, der må vige for magtens fristelser. En evigt aktuel satire om farerne ved politisk totalitarisme. George Orwells klassiker fra 1945 i ny oversættelse. Eric Arthur Blair (1903-1950), der var bedre kendt under pseudonymet George Orwell, var en britisk forfatter og journalist. Han huskes i dag bedst for romanerne "Kammerat Napoleon" ("Animal Farm") og "1984" ("Nineteen Eighty-Four") – to værker, der kendetegnes ved Orwells store bevidsthed om social retfærdighed og stærke modstand mod totalitarismen. Hans kulturelle indflydelse på både politik og populærkultur er tydelig at se selv den dag i dag.

Animal Farm

Animal Farm is a satirical allegorical novella by George Orwell, first published in England on 17 August 1945. The book tells the story of a group of farm animals who rebel against their human farmer, hoping to create a society where the animals can be equal, free, and happy. Ultimately, the rebellion is betrayed, and the farm ends up in a state as bad as it was before, under the dictatorship of a pig named Napoleon

Uhyggelig realistisk skildring af et fremtidssamfund, hvor tre superstater har delt verden mellem sig. Winston Smith lever i Oceanien, som beherskes af "partiet", der med Store Broder i spidsen kontrollerer alt - selv tanker lader sig pejle. Alligevel har Winston forbudte tanker, og han kommer i kontakt med andre oprørere, bl.a. pigen Julia, som han forelsker sig i, hvilket i øvrigt også er forbudt.

Klassikere med forord

George Orwell's nineteen Eighty-Four is one of the most definitive texts of modern literature. Set in Oceania, one of the three inter-continental superstate that divided the world among themselves after a global war, Orwell's masterful critique of the political structures of the time, works itself out through the story of Winston Smith, a man caught in the webs of a dystopian future, and his clandestine love affair with Julia, a young woman he meets during the course of his work for the government. As much as it is an entertaining read, nineteen Eighty-Four is also a brilliant, and more importantly, a timeless satirical attack on the social and political structures of the world.

Animal Farm, a fairy story, is a short novel by George Orwell. It describes a farm where animals revolt, take over and drive out men. It is an apologue written in the form of an animal fable, but also a dystopia. In this novel, Orwell offers a satire of the Russian Revolution and a critique of the Soviet regime, particularly Stalinism, and beyond that, authoritarian regimes and totalitarianism. The book was named one of the 100 best English-language novels written from 1923 to 2005 by Time magazine.

George Orwell, was an English novelist, essayist, journalist, and critic. His work is characterized by lucid prose, biting social criticism, opposition to totalitarianism, and outspoken support of democratic socialism. Orwell's work remains influential in popular and political culture, and the adjective "Orwellian"—describing totalitarian and authoritarian social practices—is part of the English language, like many of his neologisms, such as "Big Brother", "Thought Police", "Two Minutes Hate", "Room 101", "memory hole", "Newspeak", "doublethink", "proles", "unperson", and "thoughtcrime", as well as providing direct inspiration for the neologism "groupthink". 1984 centers on the consequences of totalitarianism, mass surveillance, and repressive regimentation of persons and behaviors within society. Orwell modeled the totalitarian government in the novel after Stalinist Russia. More broadly, the novel examines the role of truth and facts within politics and the ways in which they are manipulated. The story takes place in an imagined future, the year 1984 when much of the world has fallen victim to perpetual war, omnipresent government surveillance, historical negationism, and propaganda. Great Britain, known as Airstrip One, has become a province of a totalitarian superstate named Oceania that is ruled by the Party who employs the Thought Police to persecute individuality and independent thinking. Big Brother, the leader of the Party, enjoys an intense cult of personality despite the fact that he may not even exist. The protagonist, Winston Smith, is a diligent and skillful rank-and-file worker and Outer Party member who secretly hates the Party and dreams of rebellion. He enters into a forbidden relationship with a colleague, Julia, and starts to remember what life was like before the Party came to power.

England 1938 – truslen om arbejdsløshed, krig, fascisme eller kommunisme hænger som en truende sky over nationen. George Bowling, en tyk, djærv og gemytlig 45-årig orsikringsmand, bor sammen med sin kone Hilda og deres to børn i et trøstesløst rækkehuskvarter i en af Londons forstæder. En dag minder en tilfældig avisoverskrift ham pludselig om barndommen i den lille by Lower Binfield i Oxfordshire og de fredelige tider før Første Verdenskrig. Og da han netop har vundet 17 £ på galopbanen, beslutter han sig til en uges afstikker fra dagligdagen og sin evigt bekymrede kone for at opsøge barndommens steder. Men ak, alt er forandret. Binfield er blevet opslugt af en middelstor industriby, fabrikker og ensformige arbejderboliger breder sig overalt, og den stille dam med de store karper, han altid har drømt om at fiske i, er blevet losseplads… Det er dystre perspektiver, der oprulles, men gennem fortællingen går en undertone af humor og fortrøstning, som efterlader læseren med en fornemmelse af, at den rare gemytlige George Bowling nok skal klare den alligevel på en eller anden måde.

En mundfuld frisk luft

George Orwells klassiker nyoversat for første gang siden den oprindelige udgivelse i 1949. "Den, der kontrollerer fortiden, kontrollerer fremtiden; den, der kontrollerer nutiden, kontrollerer fortiden." Alt hvad du tænker og gør, registreres og rapporteres til Tankepolitiet. Det er år 1984. Winston Smith bor i Oceanien, hvor Partiet og den allestedsnærværende Big Brother overvåger borgerne ned til mindste detalje. Winston arbejder i Ministeriet for Sandhed, hvor han redigerer gamle dokumenter og aviser, så historien altid fremstår i overensstemmelse med Partiets sandhed. Men Winston længes efter frihed, og han opdager hurtigt, at den trang er livsfarlig. 1984 er et stærkt forsvar for tankens frihed, og George Orwells dystopi er mere aktuel end nogensinde.

I sin første bog tager George Orwell os med tilbage til de kummerlige forhold han levede under i 1920'ernes London og Paris. De glamourøse storbyer bliver vendt på vrangen i en beskrivelse af kampen for ren overlevelse, både den fattige forfatter og de menneskeskæbner han møder på utaknemmelige arbejdspladser og væggelusbefængte herberger. Som altid på de svages side tager Orwell os med ned i samfundets underverden i en rørende, men også levende og humorisitsk erindring, hvor tusinder slider sig halvt ihjel for de få. George Orwell (1903-1950) var en af det 20. århundredets mest berømte forfattere. Han er mest kendt for den dystopiske overvågningsroman "1984", der siden udgivelsen i 1949 og filmatiseringen fra titelåret er blevet en kultklassiker. Begrebet "orwellsk" bruges stadig i litteraturkritikken om bøger, der beskriver totalitære organisationer eller samfund. Den politiske og samfundsmæssige kritik er gennemgribende både i Orwells arbejde som forfatter, journalist og essayist, hvorfor han i dag har status som både kulturelt og politisk ikon.

Elendighedens London og Paris

"Burmadage" er en kritiske fortælling om Det Britiske Imperiums burmesiske koloni, hvor George Orwell selv gjorde tjeneste. John Flory er en desillusioneret, ensom brite, der lever af at købe og sælge teaktræ. Ingen af hans landsmænd forstår hans kærlighed til Burma, og han foragter deres racistiske tingang til lokalbefolkningen. Alligevel kan han ikke forestille sig at blive gift med en burmeser, men er konstant på udkig efter en europæisk kvinde, der kan dele hans uracistiske holdninger. Da han redder Elizabeth Lackerstein og redder hende fra at blive angrebet af en lille vandbøffel, tror han, han endelig har fundet den rette. Men under Elizabeths kønne overflade lurer den samme racisme, som Flory hverken kan acceptere hos andre eller hos sig selv. George Orwell (1903-1950) var en af det 20. århundredets mest berømte forfattere. Han er mest kendt for den dystopiske overvågningsroman "1984", der siden udgivelsen i 1949 og filmatiseringen fra titelåret er blevet en kultklassiker. Begrebet "orwellsk" bruges stadig i litteraturkritikken om bøger, der beskriver totalitære organisationer eller samfund. Den politiske og samfundsmæssige kritik er gennemgribende både i Orwells arbejde som forfatter, journalist og essayist, hvorfor han i dag har status som både kulturelt og politisk ikon.

Burmadage

"En enestående og forunderlig bog: smukt formuleret, omhyggelig, ærlig og sjov." – The Independent I foråret 1928 tog en ung George Orwell til Paris for at skrive. Han levede på et eksistensminimum blandt de fattige og nødlidende, mens han forsøgte at slå igennem som forfatter og journalist, først i Paris og sidenhen i London. Oplevelserne kom til at danne grundlag for hans første bog, erindringsromanen Paris og London på vrangen, der udkom i 1933. I Paris og London på vrangen beskriver Orwell livets barske realiteter for de arbejdende fattige og de hjemløse i to af Europas mest berømte og glamourøse byer og afslører en skjult verden af slid, elendighed og angst. Første del af bogen foregår i Paris, hvor Orwell arbejdede under usle forhold som opvasker i køkkenet hos en af byens finere restauranter og boede kummerligt på nedslidte herberger. Kampen for overlevelse og de menneskeskæbner han møder, skildres på rørende vis krydret med humoristiske anekdoter. London er omdrejningspunkt for bogens anden del. Her oplevede Orwell livet som hjemløs og som vagabond, mens han ventede på et job, han var blevet stillet i udsigt. Han beretter om at pantsætte sine ejendele for at købe mad og om tilkæmpe sig plads på de hjemløses herberger. Med følsomhed og stor indsigt beskriver Orwell fattigdom, en verden af sult, snavs, hån og fordomme. "Disse rystende skildringer, så kølige, så ægte og så intime, omfatter Paris og London set nedefra og udefra. De er gjort af en mand, der har delt elendigheden med sin næste, og de er trods titlen så læseværdige, så levende, at ingen bør afvise bogen … Man har lyst til at sige mesterværk. Men i grunden er det en æstetisk betegnelse, som måtte forarge Orwells alvor." – Jens Kruuse, Jyllands-Posten "Orwells beretning er en afsløring af fattigdommen, fattigdommens tarvelighed og gemenhed, løgnene, man benytter sig af … Hans skildring af det Parisiske slumkvarter og dets utrolige typer, latterlige, gribende, uhyggelige, er ganske simpelt mesterlig … Ligeså overbevisende … er beretningen om livet blandt de engelske bumser. Det er både rørende og rystende at læse om denne smudselige menneskelige nedværdigelse…" – Jens Kistrup, Berlingske Tidende "Tyven, der stjal de sidste penge fra en sygdomssvækket George Orwell på hans værelse i Paris i 1929, gjorde den politiske litteratur en stor tjeneste." – Vanessa Thorpe, The Observer “Stort set alt, hvad Orwell har skrevet – her og andre steder – har bevaret sin grundlæggende relevans, lige fra årsagerne til fattigdom og dens langsigtede virkninger – 'det udsletter fremtiden' – til dens daglige kedsomhed." – Laurence Mackin, Irish Times "… en enestående og forunderlig bog: smukt formuleret, omhyggelig, ærlig og sjov. George Orwells erindringer fra 1933 – som også er et studium af fattigdom – er en bog, der både har rod i sin egen tid og samtidig formår at overskride den." – The Independent "Hvis ordene 'enestående prosa' kun måtte tildeles én forfatter, ville jeg give dem til Orwell for denne beretning om at leve på et eksistensminimum." – The Guardian George Orwell, pseudonym for Eric Arthur Blair (1903-1950), var en engelsk forfatter, essayist og journalist, født i Indien. Han blev uddannet på Eton College og arbejdede derefter i det koloniale politi i Burma i årene 1922-27. Herefter vendte han tilbage til Europa, hvor han oplevede forholdene på samfundets bund som opvasker i Paris og som vagabond og hjemløs i London. Senere deltog han som frivillig i den spanske borgerkrig i 1937. Efter hjemkomsten ernærede Orwell sig som journalist samtidig med, at han skrev sine romaner og politiske og kulturelle essays. Det gjorde ham til en af sin tids mest fremtrædende forfattere. Orwell var socialist, men betegnede sig som demokratisk socialist. Han var imod enhver form for totalitært styre, som han spiddede i sine to verdensberømte, satiriske romaner Dyregården og 1984. Lydbogen er indlæst af Dan Schlosser, der er uddannet skuespiller og har lagt stemme til utallige dokumentarer på tv. Han har indlæst ca. 300 lydbøger, heriblandt klassikere af Dickens, Hemingway, Steinbeck og J.P. Jacobsen samt moderne værker af bl.a. Cormac McCarthy, Halldór Laxness og Eugen Ruge. © 2022 Bechs Forlag – Viatone Paris og London på vrangen er oversat fra engelsk af Birte Svensson efter Down and Out in Paris and London Illustration: Foto af George Orwell (1940)

Paris og London på vrangen

“En af Orwells allerbedste bøger og måske den bedste bog, der findes om den spanske borgerkrig.” – The New Yorker I slutningen af 1936 drog George Orwell til Spanien for at deltage i den spanske borgerkrig og kæmpe på oprørssiden mod de nationalistiske og fascistiske kræfter ledet af general Franco. Fire måneder senere vendte han såret og desillusioneret hjem efter at have set kommunisternes brutale udryddelse af andre oprørsgrupper og skrev herefter en af de mest berømte beretninger om den spanske borgerkrig, reportageromanen Hyldest til Catalonien. Hyldest til Catalonien er baseret på Orwells egne oplevelser fra den spanske borgerkrig. Med eminent blik for detaljerne beskriver han livet i skyttegravene, kampens frustrationer og ineffektivitet. Orwell selv blev alvorligt såret ved fronten af et skud i halsen, og på orlov i Barcelona måtte han gå under jorden og flygte for livet, da kommunisterne vendte sig mod de andre oprørsgrupper. Orwells oplevelser under borgerkrigen blev skelsættende for ham og præger hele hans efterfølgende forfatterskab. Det udtrykkes bedst med et citat af Orwell selv: "Hver eneste linje, jeg har skrevet siden 1936, er blevet skrevet direkte eller indirekte mod totalitarisme og for demokratisk socialisme, som jeg forstår det." Da Hyldest til Catalonien udkom i 1938 gik den stort set ubemærket hen. Det billede, Orwell tegnede af kommunisternes rolle i krigen, ønskede mange ikke at tro på, og det blev fornægtet af særligt vestens venstreintellektuelle. Først i 1952 blev den udgivet i USA og begyndte at opnå udbredelse. Siden har den indtaget pladsen som en af Orwells væsentligste bøger og som en af de vigtigste beskrivelser af den spanske borgerkrig. •	Nr. 3 på listen The 100 Best Non-Fiction Books of the Century, National Review, 1999 •	Nr. 42 på listen 100 Best Nonfiction, Modern Library •	Nr. 67 på listen All-TIME 100 Nonfiction Books, TIME Magazine, 2011 "Hans oplevelser i den spanske borgerkrig kom til at præge hans senere forfatterskab og hans afsløring af ideologiernes kyniske magtkamp." – Tage Taaning, Berlingske Tidende "Gribende og nødvendig for enhver der vil vide noget om Den spanske Borgerkrig. Giver et førstehåndsindtryk af kommunisternes forræderi imod anarkisterne i Barcelona." – Henrik Stangerup “Det var Orwells første beskrivelse af totalitarismen i aktion og dermed forløberen for den store roman 1984, som han skrev ti år senere. Men den er først og fremmest en af de bedste krigsreportager, der nogensinde er skrevet, fordi Orwell formår at tænke sig om og derved forudsige de næste 50 års konflikt mellem frihed og diktatur i Europa.” – Peter Wivel, Berlingske Tidende “En af Orwells allerbedste bøger og måske den bedste bog, der findes om den spanske borgerkrig.” – The New Yorker “En indsigtsfuld bog – en bog, som når den er læst, aldrig vil blive glemt.” – Chicago Sunday Tribune “Hyldest til Catalonien forbliver et af verdens mest klarsynede og reflekterende reportager ... Hans politiske indsigt virker lige så relevant nu, som den var for mere end et halvt århundrede siden.” – Ishaan Tharoor, TIME Magazine “En bevægende øjenvidneberetning … [en] fantastisk bog.” – Noam Chomsky “Jeg ville have vidst ganske lidt eller intet om de komplekse forhold mellem venner og fjender under den spanske borgerkrig, hvis ikke George Orwell i Hyldest til Catalonien havde berettet om kommunisternes brug af terror – kommissærer, der bag kamplinjerne gjorde det af med utallige anarkister og socialister.” – Günter Grass, prismodtagertale, Princess of Asturias Award, 1999 George Orwell, pseudonym for Eric Arthur Blair (1903-1950), var en engelsk romanforfatter og essayist, født i Indien. Efter endt skolegang på Eton College, arbejdede han fra 1922-27 i det koloniale politi i Burma. Han vendte herefter tilbage til Europa, hvor han oplevede forholdene på samfundets bund som opvasker i Paris og som hjemløs i London. Senere deltog han som frivillig i den spanske borgerkrig i 1937. Efter hjemkomsten ernærede Orwell sig som journalist samtidig med, at han skrev sine romaner og politiske og kulturelle essays. Det gjorde ham til en af sin tids mest fremtrædende forfattere. Orwell var socialist, men betegnede sig som demokratisk socialist. Han var imod enhver form for totalitært styre, som han spiddede i sine to verdensberømte, satiriske romaner Dyregården og 1984.

Hyldest til Catalonien

"Der er få forfattere, som genoptrykkes i store oplag 75 år efter deres død, men den engelske forfatter George Orwell er en af disse få. Det skyldes, at han så tendenser i tiden, der ikke lader til at ville forsvinde. Tværtimod. Han afslørede løgn, spin, manipulation, magtfordrejning, totalitarisme og viste, hvordan et demokrati forsvinder og et folk holdes nede." – Per Stig Møller i forordet George Orwell var en af sin tids mest fremtrædende forfattere med sine verdensberømte romaner 1984 og Dyregården og ikke mindst med en rig produktion af politiske og kulturelle essays, reportageromaner, erindringsromaner og journalistisk. I samlingen Politiske essays er flere essays højaktuelle med påvisningen af, hvorledes løgn, propaganda og manglende pressefrihed fører til et totalitært styre: "Objektive fakta forties, tidspunkter ændres og citater bliver løftet ud af deres rette sammenhæng og får modificeret deres ordlyd. Begivenheder, som helst ikke skulle have fundet sted, bliver ikke nævnt og i sidste ende benægtet." – George Orwell, Noter om nationalisme "Men enhver forfatter eller journalist, der nærer udelt sympati for Sovjetunionen – altså den form for sympati, som russerne gerne ser – er nødt til at indvillige i forsætlig forfalskning af afgørende forhold.” – George Orwell, Forebyggelse af litteratur I andre af samlingens essays er det Orwells socialistiske indstilling, hans kamp og med­følelse for de svage i samfundet, der er fremherskende. Beretningerne hviler oftest på egne erfaringer, som skildringen af de fattige og usynlige i Afrika i Marrakesh eller livet som vagabond i Anstalten. Orwells essays er blandt det bedste, han lavede.” – Daily Telegraph ”Alle der ønsker at forstå det tyvende århundrede er stadig nødt til at læse Orwell.” – New York Review of Books “Orwell har fremfor alt en ærlig stemme – klar, ligefrem og passioneret.” – The Guardian Politiske essays er med forord af Per Stig Møller og omfatter følgende tekster: Anstalten – Marrakesh – Wells, Hitler og verdensstaten – Tilbageblik på krigen i Spanien – Noter om nationalisme – Hævnen er sur – Pressefrihed – Forebyggelse af litteratur – Lynkursus i socialisme – Refleksioner over Gandhi.

Politiske essays

George Orwell var en af sin tids mest fremtrædende forfattere med sine verdensberømte romaner 1984 og Dyregården og ikke mindst med en rig produktion af politiske og kulturelle essays, reportageromaner, erindringsromaner og journalistisk. I Litteraturkritiske essays påviser Orwell, udover skarpsindige analyser af litterære virkemid­ler og karakteristika i forfatterskabet, hvorledes forfatterens livsholdning gen­nemsyrer hans værker: "Sandheden er, at Dickens’ samfundskritik er næsten rendyrket moralsk af karakter. Deraf det totale fravær af nogen form for konstruktive forbedringsforslag i forfatterskabet … I sidste ende kan han sådan set kun sige ’opfør jer nu ordentligt’." – fra essayet Charles Dickens "Oversat til politisk sprogbrug tenderer Yeats til fascisme … Senere blev disse tilbøjeligheder klarere i konturen og førte ham frem til en ’jublende accept af et autoritært styre som den eneste løsning…’” – fra essayet W.B. Yeats Samtidig fornemmer man tydeligt i essayene Orwells egne holdninger. "Orwells litterære analyser er små mesterværker. De kombinerer hans subjektive forhold til sine litterære emner fra fortiden med hans kritiske opfattelse af hans samtid og bringer det litterære, politiske og personlige sammen, for ‘enhver forfatter og især romanforfatter har altid et 'budskab'.” – Per Stig Møller i forordet "Orwells essays er blandt det bedste, han lavede.” – Daily Telegraph "Uovertruffen skarp og frisk … Den klareste og mest overbevisende engelske prosastil i dette århundrede.” – Sunday Times “Orwell har fremfor alt en ærlig stemme – klar, ligefrem og passioneret.” – The Guardian Litteraturkritiske essays er med forord af Per Stig Møller og omfatter følgende tekster: Minder fra en boghandel – Charles Dickens – W.B. Yeats – Arthur Koestler – Politik kontra litteratur: En undersøgelse af ’Gullivers rejser’ – Lear, Tolstoj og narren – Rudyard Kipling.

Litteraturkritiske essays

Da Winston trådte ind i sin lejlighed blev han mødt af en stemme fra en skærm, der var sat fast på væggen overfor ham – teleskærmen blev den kaldt. Det var umuligt at slukke for skærmen, men Winston kunne skrue en anelse ned for lyden. Winston Smith lever i et mareridt. Tankepolitiet udspionerer alle, og børn opdrages til at forråde deres forældre. Selv det mindste tegn på uenighed med Partiet fører til tortur, fængsel eller død. Big Brother holder øje med alt! I dag er 1984 fortid, men da bogen udkom tilbage i 1949 foregik den 35 år ude i fremtiden. Selvom 1984 er ren fiktion, er historien inspireret af de begivenheder, som fandt sted i verden i den periode. Da George Orwell skrev bogen havde han især nazismen i Tyskland – fra 1930’erne og frem til afslutningen af Anden Verdenskrig i 1945 – og livet i det daværende Sovjetunionen i baghovedet. 1984 er en del af Letlæste klassikere som er en ny serie med nogle af verdenshistoriens mest velkendte fortællinger. Historien er genfortalt af Tony Evans og henvender sig især til læsere på 8-12 år. De eventyrlige og stemningsfulde illustrationer er medvirkende til at give historierne nyt liv. Bøgerne kan både bruges til frilæsning eller som en del af et undervisningsforløb i dansk på mellemtrinnet. Letlæste klassikere har genfortalt nogle af verdenshistoriens mest kendte klassikere for at gøre indholdet mere tilgængeligt. Hensigten er at formidle dele af en rig kulturskat, vække læseglæde og give lyst til at læse mere.

Letlæste klassikere

Dyregården Alle dyr er lige, men nogle dyr er mere lige end andre. Dyrene på gården gør oprør og overtager magten. De er lykkelige over deres nye frihed. I spidsen står nu de kloge grise. Vil det lykkes dyrene at drive gården? Eller vil nye farer sætte en stopper for deres lykke? Da Dyregården (Animal Farm) blev udgivet i 1945, blev den hurtigt populær og har været berømt lige siden. En af bogens styrker er, at den kan læses på flere planer og underholde læsere i alle aldre. På ét plan har vi den fantasifulde fortælling om dyr, der taler og tænker som mennesker. Men historien er også en fabel. Det betyder, at dyrene er gjort menneskelige for at lære os en vigtig lektie om livet. Dyregården er en del af Letlæste klassikere som er en ny serie med nogle af verdenshistoriens mest velkendte fortællinger. Historien er genfortalt af Tony Evans og henvender sig især til læsere på 8-12 år. De eventyrlige og stemningsfulde illustrationer er medvirkende til at give historierne nyt liv. Bøgerne kan både bruges til frilæsning eller som en del af et undervisningsforløb i dansk på mellemtrinnet. Letlæste klassikere har genfortalt nogle af verdenshistoriens mest kendte klassikere for at gøre indholdet mere tilgængeligt. Hensigten er at formidle dele af en rig kulturskat, vække læseglæde og give lyst til at læse mere.

Dyregården

George Orwells verdensberømte roman Animal Farm udgives for første gang som lydbog på dansk og i en helt ny oversættelse med titlen Dyregården. Den er tidligere udgivet som bog på dansk i en oversættelse fra 1947 med titlen Kammerat Napoleon. Under ledelse af grisene gør de undertrykte og overbebyrdede dyr på Herregården oprør mod gårdens dovne og fordrukne ejer Mr. Jones og fordriver ham fra gården. De grundlægger en ny filosofi, som de kalder animalisme, og de får deres egen kampsang. Herregården bliver omdøbt til Dyregården, og dyrene forestiller sig, at det er begyndelsen til et nyt liv bygget på frihed og lighed. Men gradvis etableres der en snu og hensynsløs elite af de intellektuelt overlegne grise ledet af den brutale gris Napoleon. Og de oprindelige idealistiske syv bud reduceres til ét bud: Alle dyr er lige, men nogle dyr er mere lige end andre. Dyregården er en grum og vittig politisk satire skrevet i fablens form rettet mod Stalins brutale diktatur i Sovjetunionen, og flere af bogens karakterer kan kobles til historiske personer. Et bidende skarpt eventyr for voksne, som gengiver udviklingen fra revolution mod tyranni til et lige så frygteligt totalitært styre. Budskabet er stadig helt aktuelt, og bogen optræder fortsat på lister over de bedste og mest populære bøger. "Ingen anden skønlitterær forfatter fra det 20. århundrede har påvirket dagligdagssproget og den politiske retorik som George Orwell. (...) nyoversatte klassikere minder om, at vi skal vogte os for de kræfter, der vil indsnævre sproget og retouchere den kollektive hukommelse" – Adam Holm, Weekendavisen "George Orwells fabel om dyrenes revolution er isnende læsning i denne tid (...) Som alle sande klassikere har den en fantastisk friskhed over sig. Satiren er blændende og fint tilbageholdt, som satire skal være." – Niels Lillelund, Jyllands-Posten ★★★★★★ "… den lystigste parodi på det kommunistiske Rusland, som er skrevet, lige så hvas som vittig. " – Hakon Stangerup "Det er en bog, der er så vittig i sin skildring af det Stalinistiske Rusland, at vittigheden får langt videre sigte. … den mest aktuelle, den morsomste og den mest realistiske bog fra vore dage. " – Jens Kruuse George Orwell skrev Dyregården mellem november 1943 og februar 1944, men der var ingen britiske eller amerikanske forlag, der ville udgive den på grund af dens kritik af Stalin, som Storbritannien og USA på det tidspunkt var allieret med i 2. verdenskrig. Det ændrede sig, og den blev udgivet efter krigen i august 1945 og blev straks en verdensomspændende succes og har siden holdt sig i toppen af bestsellerlisterne. George Orwell, pseudonym for Eric Arthur Blair (1903-1950), var en engelsk forfatter og essayist, født i Indien. Efter Orwell afsluttede sin skolegang på den engelske privatskole Eton, arbejdede han nogle år i det koloniale politi i Burma. Herefter vendte han tilbage til Europa og oplevede forholdene på samfundets bund, hvor han arbejdede som opvasker i Paris og senere levede som hjemløs i London. Senere deltog han som frivillig i den spanske borgerkrig, blev såret og vendte desillusioneret hjem efter at have set kommunisternes brutale udryddelse af andre republikanske grupper. Orwell blev en af sin tids mest fremtrædende forfattere, og hans sidste to romaner Dyregården og 1984 er i dag verdensberømte klassikere.

I det berømte titelessay Elefanten og det efterfølgende essay En henrettelse leverer Orwell en svidende kritik af det britiske koloniale styre. Baseret på egne oplevelser som officer i det koloniale politi i Burma kaster han et undersøgende blik på magt, magtudøvelse og underkastelse. Herefter følger klassikeren Sådan dør de fattige samt en række af de mesterlige indlæg, Orwell skrev til sin ugentlige klumme i Tribune i årene 1943-47 under overskriften As I please. Elefanten og andre essays indeholder i alt otte essays – meningsfyldte, kompromisløse, tankevækkende og enormt underholdende, viser de tilsammen Orwells unikke evne til at komme ind til kernen af ethvert emne./p> Samlingen omfatter: Elefanten – En henrettelse –Sådan dør de fattige – En boganmelders bekendelser –Gode dårlige bøger – Sportsånd –Det engelske mords forfald –	Nogle betragtninger over den almindelige tudse. "Hvorfor er Orwell værd at læse? Fordi hans verden ikke kun er gårsdagens verden." – Weekendavisen "Alle der ønsker at forstå det tyvende århundrede er stadig nødt til at læse Orwell." – New York Review of Books "Orwell har fremfor alt en ærlig stemme – klar, ligefrem og passioneret." – The Guardian "(...) hver gang man dykker ned i Orwell, finder man en guldgrube af visdom." – New York Times Sunday Book Review "Den største forfatter i det tyvende århundrede." – The Observer George Orwell, pseudonym for Eric Arthur Blair (1903-1950), var en engelsk forfatter, essayist og journalist, født i Indien. Efter endt skolegang på Eton College, arbejde han fra 1922-27 i det koloniale politi i Burma. Han vendte herefter tilbage til Europa, hvor han oplevede forholdene på samfundets bund som opvasker i Paris og som vagabond og hjemløs i London. Senere deltog han som frivillig i den spanske borgerkrig i 1937. Efter hjemkomsten ernærede Orwell sig som journalist samtidig med, at han skrev sine romaner og politiske og kulturelle essays. Det gjorde ham til en af sin tids mest fremtrædende forfattere.

Elefanten og andre essays

“Ægte genialitet … al hans vrede og frustration fandt deres første rigtige udtryksmiddel i Vejen til Wigan Pier.” – Peter Ackroyd, The Times Vejen til Wigan Pier er en berømt reportageroman af George Orwell – oversat til dansk for første gang i 2022 af Lærke Pade og med efterskrift af Per Stig Møller. Bogens første del er en af Orwells mest berømte reportager fra hans ophold blandt kulminearbejdere i Nordengland i vinteren 1936. I sin usædvanligt klare og enkle stil beskriver han minearbejdernes hårde arbejde, den usle løn og de elendige boligforhold, som han også prøvede på egen krop. Bogens anden del er et essay, hvor Orwell beskriver og analyserer det engelske klassesamfund med afsæt i skildringer af sit eget liv og opvækst. Med et eminent blik for detaljerne viser han, hvordan de skarpe klasseskel står i vejen for socialismens fodfæste i England, hvilket han anser for et tvingende nødvendigt værn mod fascismens fremmarch. Opholdet i Wigan gjorde Orwell til overbevist socialist, idet han så den økonomiske ulighed, kapitalismen kunne medføre. Han var dog kritisk overfor flere af de socialistiske bevægelser og spidder i bogen den overfladiske socialisme, hvor man sympatiserer med arbejderne, men ikke omgås dem. Resultatet var, at Orwell provokerede både venstre og højre, der begge tog afstand fra ham eller brugte ham ved at tage ham til indtægt for egne synspunkter. Vejen til Wigan Pier er nr. 39 på The Guardians liste 100 best nonfiction books of all time fra 2017. Bogen hører til blandt de mest populære værker fra den journalistiske del af George Orwells forfatterskab. "Langt om længe udkommer George Orwells The Road to Wigan Pier på dansk. En kras reportage fra klassesamfundets mørkeland og et sylespidst opgør med salonsocialismen … reportagejournalistik i mesterklassen … en kongenial oversættelse af Lærke Pade og med et indsigtsfuldt efterord af Per Stig Møller ... Hvis man holder af 1984 og Dyregården, som begge blev genudgivet i fjor, vil man ved læsningen af Vejen til Wigan Pier se tegningen til den kritik af masseforførelse og underkastelse, som begge disse klassikere på forskellig vis kredser om." – Adam Holm, Weekendavisen “I dette år, 1936, blev George Orwell med sine rejser til Wigan og Barcelona til den George Orwell, der skrev sig ind historien.” – Per Stig Møller, Efterord, Vejen til Wigan Pier "Orwells originalitet som forfatter består i uvilligheden til at acceptere udsagn og teorier, som ikke har bund i det selvoplevede. (…) Som en vigtig påmindelse om, at vores samfundsmæssige virkelighed nok er mere speget og indfældet, og vi mennesker repræsenterer langt mere kultur og vaner og religion, end vi normalt er klar over, er Orwells bog pligtlæsning." – Henrik Gade Jensen, indblik.dk “Lyden af en stor forfatter, der finder sin autentiske stemme.” – Robert McCrum, The Guardian “Reportageromanen er intensiv læsning fra start til slut, og der er uden tvivl meget visdom at hente i Orwells ord … Det intense i livet, der bliver beskrevet, er eviggyldigt, og hans tanker om vores verden og samfund er lige så gyldige nu, som de var det dengang.” – Louise Trankjær, Skriv for livet “Orwell er en forfatter med en exceptionel umiddelbarhed, friskhed og energi – han er påståelig og dristig, skiftevis vred og meget blid … kvaliteterne i Orwells prosa er først og fremmest, at den normalt er forbilledlig klar og enkel.” – Richard Hoggart, Introduction, The Road to Wigan Pier, Penguin, 1989 “Afskyeligheden i indledningen … er uovertruffen. Han synes at påvirke den moderne verden, som Engels påvirkede 1840-50’ernes verden. Men med den forskel, at Orwell er en født forfatter, hvor Engels, trods sin fyrige og strålende karakter, ganske enkelt ikke var forfatter.” – Edith Sitwell

Vejen til Wigan Pier

Anført af grisene gør dyrene på Grevefarmen oprør mod deres forsumpede herre og opretter et strengt socialistisk samfund. Det varer imidlertid ikke længe, før grisen Snowball må overlade magten til Napoleon, som indfører et terrorregime ved hjælp af sin hundelivvagt og gør grisene til den herskende overklasse.

Kammerat Napoleon

Animal Farm is an allegorical novella by George Orwell, first published in England on 17 August 1945. The book tells the story of a group of farm animals who rebel against their human farmer, hoping to create a society where the animals can be equal, free, and happy. Ultimately, however, the rebellion is betrayed, and the farm ends up in a state as bad as it was before, under the dictatorship of a pig named Napoleon. According to Orwell, the fable reflects events leading up to the Russian Revolution of 1917 and then on into the Stalinist era of the Soviet Union. Orwell, a democratic socialist, was a critic of Joseph Stalin and hostile to Moscow-directed Stalinism, an attitude that was critically shaped by his experiences during the Spanish Civil War. The Soviet Union had become a brutal dictatorship built upon a cult of personality and enforced by a reign of terror. In a letter to Yvonne Davet, Orwell described Animal Farm as a satirical tale against Stalin ("un conte satirique contre Staline"), and in his essay "Why I Write" (1946), wrote that Animal Farm was the first book in which he tried, with full consciousness of what he was doing, "to fuse political purpose and artistic purpose into one whole". Time magazine chose the book as one of the 100 best English-language novels (1923 to 2005); it also featured at number 31 on the Modern Library List of Best 20th-Century Novels, and number 46 on the BBC's The Big Read poll. It won a Retrospective Hugo Award in 1996 and is included in the Great Books of the Western World selection.

Eric Arthur Blair (1903–1950) known by his pen name George Orwell, was an English novelist, essayist, journalist and critic. His work is characterised by lucid prose, biting social criticism, opposition to totalitarianism, and outspoken support of democratic socialism. As a writer, Orwell produced literary criticism and poetry, fiction and polemical journalism; and is best known for the allegorical novella Animal Farm (1945) and the dystopian novel Nineteen Eighty-Four (1949). His non-fiction works, including The Road to Wigan Pier (1937), documenting his experience of working-class life in the north of England, and Homage to Catalonia (1938), an account of his experiences soldiering for the Republican faction of the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939), are as critically respected as his essays on politics and literature, language and culture. In 2008, The Times ranked George Orwell second among "The 50 greatest British writers since 1945". Orwell's work remains influential in popular culture and in political culture, and the adjective "Orwellian"—describing totalitarian and authoritarian social practices—is part of the English language, like many of his neologisms, such as "Big Brother", "Thought Police", "Two Minutes Hate", "Room 101", "memory hole", "Newspeak", "doublethink", "proles", "unperson", and "thoughtcrime". This volume contains George Orwell's complete novels: Burmese Days (1934) A Clergyman's Daughter (1935) Keep the Aspidistra Flying (1936) Coming Up for Air (1939) Animal Farm (1945) Nineteen Eighty-Four (1949)

George Orwell: Complete Novels

Homage to Catalonia is George Orwell's personal account of his experiences and observations fighting for the Republican army during the Spanish Civil War. The war was one of the shaping events on his political outlook and a significant part of what led him to write, in 1946. Orwel wrote: "Every line of serious work that I have written since 1936 has been written, directly or indirectly, against totalitarianism and for Democratic Socialism, as I understand it." Here the author brings to bear all the force of his humanity, passion and clarity, describing with bitter intensity the bright hopes and cynical betrayals of that chaotic episode: the revolutionary euphoria of Barcelona, the courage of ordinary Spanish men and women he fought alongside, the terror and confusion of the front, his near-fatal bullet wound and the vicious treachery of his supposed allies.

Homage to Catalonia

“Burmese Days“ is a novel by George Orwell, an English novelist, essayist, and journalist. He is best known for the allegorical novella Animal Farm and the dystopian novel Nineteen Eighty-Four. Burmese Days is the first novel by English writer George Orwell, published in 1934. Set in British Burma during the waning days of the empire, when Burma was ruled from Delhi as part of British India, the novel serves as "a portrait of the dark side of the British Raj."

Burmese Days

This Collected Works contain: Nineteen Eigthy-Four (1984), A Clergyman's Daughter, Animal Farm, Burmese Days, Down and Out in Paris and London, Homage to Catalonia, Inside the Whale and other Essays, Down the Mine, England Your England, Shooting an Elephant, Lear, Tolstoy and the Fool, Politics vs. Literature: An Examination of Gulliver's Travels, Politics and the English Language, The Prevention of Literature, Boys' Weeklies, Keep the Aspidistra Flying, Why I Write, Writers and Leviathan, Poetry and the Microphone, The Spike, A Hanging, Bookshop Memories, Charles Dickens, Boys' Weeklies, My Country Right or Left, Looking Back on the Spanish War, In Defence of English Cooking, Good Bad Books, The Sporting Spirit, Nonsense Poetry, The Prevention of Literature, Books v. Cigarettes, Decline of the English Murder, Some Thoughts on the Common Toad, Confessions of a Book Reviewer, Politics v. Literature: An Examination of Gulliver's Travels, How the Poor Die, Such, Such Were the Joys, Reflections on Gandhi, Politics and the English Language, The Lion and the Unicorn, The Road to Wigan Pier. Eric Arthur Blair, George Orwell, was an English novelist, essayist, journalist and critic. His work is characterised by lucid prose, biting social criticism, opposition to totalitarianism, and outspoken support of democratic socialism. Orwell's work remains influential in popular culture and in political culture, and the adjective "Orwellian"—describing totalitarian and authoritarian social practices—is part of the English language, like many of his neologisms, such as "Big Brother", "Thought Police", "Two Minutes Hate", "Room 101", "memory hole", "Newspeak", "doublethink", "proles", "unperson", and "thoughtcrime".

Collected Works

Nineteen Eighty-Four, often referred to as 1984, is a dystopian social science fiction novel by the English novelist George Orwell (the pen name of Eric Arthur Blair). It was published on 8th June 1949 as Orwell’s ninth and final book completed in his lifetime. Thematically, Nineteen Eighty-Four centres on the consequences of totalitarianism, mass surveillance, and repressive regimentation of persons and behaviours within society. Orwell, himself a democratic socialist, modelled the authoritarian government in the novel after Stalinist Russia. More broadly, the novel examines the role of truth and facts within politics and the ways in which they are manipulated. The story takes place in an imagined future, the year 1984, when much of the world has fallen victim to perpetual war, omnipresent government surveillance, historical negationism, and propaganda. Great Britain, known as Airstrip One, has become a province of a totalitarian superstate named Oceania that is ruled by the Party who employ the Thought Police to persecute individuality and independent thinking. Big Brother, the leader of the Party, enjoys an intense cult of personality despite the fact that he may not even exist. The protagonist, Winston Smith, is a diligent and skilful rank-and-file worker and Outer Party member who secretly hates the Party and dreams of rebellion. He enters into a forbidden relationship with a colleague, Julia, and starts to remember what life was like before the Party came to power.

Step into the harrowing world of George Orwell's "1984," a prophetic and haunting vision of a totalitarian society where Big Brother watches your every move and individuality is crushed under the weight of oppressive surveillance. In this dystopian masterpiece, Orwell presents a chilling future where the Party controls every aspect of life, rewriting history and manipulating reality to maintain its iron grip on power. Meet Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the Party who dares to question the suffocating conformity and propaganda-fed lies. As Winston embarks on a treacherous journey of rebellion and self-discovery, he finds himself entangled in a forbidden love affair and drawn into a secret resistance movement. Together with his enigmatic ally, Julia, Winston dares to defy Big Brother, risking everything for a sliver of freedom in a world where individual thoughts and desires are deemed thoughtcrime. "1984" explores themes of totalitarianism, government surveillance, psychological manipulation, and the erosion of truth. Orwell's stark and powerful prose will transport you to a society where fear and paranoia reign, and privacy is a distant memory. With each turn of the page, you will be gripped by the relentless tension and the unsettling familiarity of a world that poses a haunting reflection of our own. This timeless classic continues to resonate with readers, serving as a stark warning against the dangers of unchecked authority and the erosion of civil liberties. Orwell's cautionary tale compels us to reflect on the fragility of freedom and the importance of preserving our individuality, our autonomy, and our capacity for independent thought. Prepare to be captivated and disturbed as you enter a world where truth is subjective, and conformity is enforced. "1984" stands as a testament to Orwell's unparalleled foresight, reminding us that the struggle for freedom and truth is a battle that must be fought relentlessly, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Open the book and immerse yourself in a literary masterpiece that will leave an indelible mark on your conscience, urging you to question the power structures that govern our lives and to safeguard the precious liberties we hold dear. Enter the world of "1984" and confront the chilling reality that lies within.

1984 (Original Classic Editions)

All of Maggie's focus and free time is spent swimming. She's not only striving to earn scholarships - she's training to qualify for the Olympics. It helps that her best friend, Levi, is also on the team and that he cheers her on, but he's already earned his Olympic tryout, so sometimes his presence creates more pressure. If that wasn't stressful enough, life becomes even more complicated once Maggie goes on a college visit. There, she realizes how much of the typical high-school experience she's missed out on by being in the pool. Not one to shy away from a challenge, Maggie decides to try to squeeze the most out of her senior year while still training. First up? Making out with a guy. Maggie figures that Levi could be the perfect candidate - after all, they already spend a lot of time together. But as Maggie starts to discover her own feelings for Levi, she must decide how much she's willing to sacrifice in the water to win at love.

Hundred Oaks Series

Coming Up for Air

"Animal Farm" by George Orwell is a captivating allegory that takes you on a thought-provoking journey. Set on a farm, the animals rebel against their human oppressors, establishing their own society. Initially, it's a utopian vision of equality and justice, but power and corruption soon creep in. Orwell's storytelling brilliance shines as each animal represents a facet of society, and their revolution mirrors historical events. Witness the rise and fall of their animal-led government, the emergence of a ruthless elite, and the haunting parallels with the human world. This novella is a warning against totalitarianism, propaganda, and the corrupting influence of power. Orwell's vivid prose and sharp social commentary make "Animal Farm" an essential read for those interested in politics and society. It's a timeless tale of how ideals can be twisted, leaving you pondering the nature of power and the fragility of freedom. ABOUT THE AUTHOR George Orwell, the pen name of Eric Arthur Blair, was a renowned English writer and essayist. Born on June 25, 1903, in Motihari, India, he is best known for his literary contributions that challenged totalitarianism and explored the consequences of oppressive government systems. Orwell's early life included experiences as an imperial police officer in Burma, which profoundly influenced his views on British imperialism. His first notable work, "Down and Out in Paris and London", was published in 1933, recounting his experiences among the working class and homeless. However, it was Orwell's dystopian novels that catapulted him to literary fame. "Animal Farm," published in 1945, is a satirical allegory that critiques the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalinism. In 1949, he released his magnum opus, "Nineteen Eighty-Four," which portrayed a nightmarish future under a totalitarian regime, coining terms like "Big Brother" and "thoughtcrime" that have become part of popular culture. Orwell's writing style is marked by its clarity and social commentary. He was a passionate advocate for truth and freedom of expression, which is evident in his essays like "Politics and the English Language." Sadly, Orwell's life was cut short by tuberculosis, and he passed away on January 21, 1950, at the age of 46. His works remain not only literary classics but also influential critiques of authoritarianism and the dangers of propaganda, ensuring his enduring legacy in the world of literature and political thought.

Animal farm

Man has always wanted to travel into the unknown and encounter what he has not, and perhaps cannot, experience in the real world. The early 20th century witnessed an explosion of science fiction literature. Authors studied the wonders of scientific and technological progress and imagined worlds that had developed even greater advances. Jules Vernes' and H.G. Wells' fantastic tales well whetted the public's appetite for adventure tales. Since then, science fiction has metamorphosized hundreds of times, each transformation introducing more sophisticated plots and otherworldly settings than those which have come before. While wars against robots or green men may no longer be the most terrifying struggle that we can imagine, the classic tales do not cease to fascinate readers and inspire the exploration of new frontiers. Jules Verne : Twenty Thousand Leagues Under The Sea Arthur Conan Doyle : The Lost World H. G. Wells : The Invisible Man George Orwell : 1984. Nineteen Eighty-Four

Science Fiction Adventures Classics in Literature Collection

"1984" by George Orwell is a dystopian masterpiece that paints a chilling vision of a totalitarian future. Set in a world where Big Brother watches your every move, the novel follows Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the ruling Party who begins to question the oppressive regime. Orwell's portrayal of a surveillance state, thought control, and the erasure of truth is eerily relevant in today's digital age. The novel introduces the concept of "Newspeak," a language designed to eliminate independent thought. As Winston rebels against the system, he embarks on a dangerous journey for truth and freedom. The story is a harrowing exploration of the consequences of mass surveillance and authoritarianism. "1984" is not just a work of fiction; it's a warning about the dangers of sacrificing individual liberties for the illusion of security. It's a thought-provoking, unsettling, and thought-provoking read that remains profoundly relevant in our modern world. ABOUT THE AUTHOR George Orwell, the pen name of Eric Arthur Blair, was a renowned English writer and essayist. Born on June 25, 1903, in Motihari, India, he is best known for his literary contributions that challenged totalitarianism and explored the consequences of oppressive government systems. Orwell's early life included experiences as an imperial police officer in Burma, which profoundly influenced his views on British imperialism. His first notable work, "Down and Out in Paris and London", was published in 1933, recounting his experiences among the working class and homeless. However, it was Orwell's dystopian novels that catapulted him to literary fame. "Animal Farm," published in 1945, is a satirical allegory that critiques the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalinism. In 1949, he released his magnum opus, "Nineteen Eighty-Four," which portrayed a nightmarish future under a totalitarian regime, coining terms like "Big Brother" and "thoughtcrime" that have become part of popular culture. Orwell's writing style is marked by its clarity and social commentary. He was a passionate advocate for truth and freedom of expression, which is evident in his essays like "Politics and the English Language." Sadly, Orwell's life was cut short by tuberculosis, and he passed away on January 21, 1950, at the age of 46. His works remain not only literary classics but also influential critiques of authoritarianism and the dangers of propaganda, ensuring his enduring legacy in the world of literature and political thought.

"1984 - the novel marking the end of communism." George Orwell's 1984 revolves around Winston Smith, an office worker who performs censorship duties in Oceania's Ministry of Truth as a small cog in the wheel of a monstrous state apparatus. For years, doubts have been gnawing at him about the legitimacy of the system in which even a blink of the eye can cost him his life. The novel begins with the first step towards putting this initially purely intellectual resistance into action: Winston opens a diary. He subsequently falls in love with a young female colleague, and together they begin a love affair that, in the dictatorship that invades every aspect of life, is in itself an act of high treason. Even though they have different views on the society they live in, they are united by the rejection of its narrow moral corset and the desire for individual freedom and, not least, a right to love and feel. While Winston understands HOW the machinery of tyranny works, he does not understand WHY the massive effort of its surveillance and repressive apparatus is undertaken. When they decide to seek contact with the underground opposition and eventually end up in the hands of the repression apparatus of the state, Winston learns the true background of Oceania's society. Until his death, George Orwell was a convinced socialist - all the greater was the effect his work, published in 1949, had on the political left of the time. On the political left, the Soviet Union was seen as the realisation of Marx's ideas, the workers' paradise that would free the enslaved masses from their shackles. Orwell was one of the few leftists of his time who dared to shake this narrative. Under the impression of the undeniable terror of Stalinist rule and its cynical, opportunistic cooperation with fascist and capitalist foreign countries, he criticised the hypocrisy and inhumanities of the real communism with Animal Farm and 1984. George Orwell - Animal Farm Animal Farm is a dystopian fable by George Orwell, published in 1945, about the uprising of the animals of an English farm against the rule of their human owner, who neglects and exploits them. After initial successes and incipient prosperity, the pigs increasingly take over and eventually establish a tyranny worse than the one the animals tried to shake off. While the majority of the political left of the 1940s still regarded the Soviet Union as the realisation of Karl Marx's ideas, George Orwell's bestseller breaks with this view by very humorously depicting the development of Russia or the Soviet Union from the late reign of Tsar Nicholas II to post-war Stalinism in the form of this modern fable.

1984, Animal Farm: George Orwell Main Works Collection

A Haunting Vision of Totalitarian Terror In a dystopian future where independent thought is discouraged and freedom is an distant memory, Winston Smith rebels against the all-powerful Party and its omnipresent leader, Big Brother. Working in the Ministry of Truth, where history is constantly rewritten to serve the Party's agenda, Winston begins to question the official ideology and eventually starts an illicit love affair with a fellow worker, Julia. As Winston and Julia's rebellion grows, they become aware of the Thought Police's relentless surveillance and the ominous presence of Big Brother, who watches and controls every aspect of society. 1984 is a timeless classic that warns against the dangers of government control, propaganda, and manipulation. Orwell's prophetic vision of a totalitarian future remains eerily relevant today.

A Clergyman's Daughter is a 1935 novel by English author George Orwell. It tells the story of Dorothy Hare, the clergyman's daughter of the title, whose life is turned upside down when she suffers an attack of amnesia. It is Orwell's most formally experimental novel, featuring a chapter written entirely in dramatic form, but he was never satisfied with it and he left instructions that after his death it was not to be reprinted. Despite these instructions, Orwell did consent to the printing of cheap editions "of any book which may bring in a few pounds for my heirs" following his death. George Orwell, was an English novelist, essayist, journalist and critic. His work is characterized by lucid prose, biting social criticism, total opposition to totalitarianism, and outspoken support of democratic socialism. Orwell produced literary criticism and poetry, fiction and polemical journalism. He is known for the allegorical novella Animal Farm (1945) and the dystopian novel Nineteen Eighty-Four (1949). His non-fiction works, including The Road to Wigan Pier (1937), documenting his experience of working-class life in the north of England, and Homage to Catalonia (1938), an account of his experiences soldiering for the Republican faction of the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939), are as critically respected as his essays on politics and literature, language and culture. In 2008, The Times ranked George Orwell second among "The 50 greatest British writers since 1945". Orwell's work remains influential in popular culture and in political culture, and the adjective "Orwellian"—describing totalitarian and authoritarian social practices—is part of the English language, like many of his neologisms, such as "Big Brother", "Thought Police", "Two Minutes Hate", "Room 101", "memory hole", "Newspeak", "doublethink", "unperson", and "thoughtcrime", as well as providing direct inspiration for the neologism "groupthink". ©2022 Eden Garret Giuliano (P) 2021 Eden Garret Giuliano

A Clergyman's Daughter

Nineteen Eighty-Four: A Novel, often published as 1984, is a dystopian social science fiction novel by English novelist George Orwell. It was published on 8 June 1949 by Secker & Warburg as Orwell's ninth and final book completed in his lifetime. Thematically, Nineteen Eighty-Four centres on the consequences of totalitarianism, mass surveillance, and repressive regimentation of persons and behaviours within society. Orwell, himself a democratic socialist, modelled the authoritarian government in the novel after Stalinist Russia. More broadly, the novel examines the role of truth and facts within politics and the ways in which they are manipulated. The story takes place in an imagined future, the year 1984, when much of the world has fallen victim to perpetual war, omnipresent government surveillance, historical negationism, and propaganda. Great Britain, known as Airstrip One, has become a province of a totalitarian superstate named Oceania that is ruled by the Party who employ the Thought Police to persecute individuality and independent thinking. Big Brother, the leader of the Party, enjoys an intense cult of personality despite the fact that he may not even exist. The protagonist, Winston Smith, is a diligent and skillful rank-and-file worker and Party member who secretly hates the Party and dreams of rebellion. He enters into a forbidden relationship with a colleague, Julia, and starts to remember what life was like before the Party came to power.

George Orwell, was an English novelist, essayist, journalist and critic. His work is characterized by lucid prose, biting social criticism, total opposition to totalitarianism, and outspoken support of democratic socialism. Orwell produced literary criticism and poetry, fiction and polemical journalism. He is known for the allegorical novella Animal Farm (1945) and the dystopian novel Nineteen EightyFour (1949). His nonfiction works, including The Road to Wigan Pier (1937), documenting his experience of workingclass life in the north of England, and Homage to Catalonia (1938), an account of his experiences soldiering for the Republican faction of the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939), are as critically respected as his essays on politics and literature, language and culture. In 2008, The Times ranked George Orwell second among "The 50 greatest British writers since 1945". Orwell's work remains influential in popular culture and in political culture, and the adjective "Orwellian"—describing totalitarian and authoritarian social practices—is part of the English language, like many of his neologisms, such as "Big Brother", "Thought Police", "Two Minutes Hate", "Room 101", "memory hole", "Newspeak", "doublethink", "unperson", and "thoughtcrime", as well as providing direct inspiration for the neologism "groupthink". ©2022 Eden Garret Giuliano (P) 2022 Eden Garret Giuliano

A Compendium Of Revolutionary Notions  Politics And The English Language A Nice Cup Of Tee

THE BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING YOU Written in 1948, 1984 was George Orwell's chilling prophecy about the future. And while 1984 has come and gone, his dystopian vision of a government that will do anything to control the narrative is timelier than ever... Winston Smith toes the Party line, rewriting history to satisfy the demands of the Ministry of Truth. With each lie he writes, Winston grows to hate the Party that seeks power for its own sake and persecutes those who dare to commit thoughtcrimes. But as he starts to think for himself, Winston can't escape the fact that Big Brother is always watching... A startling and haunting vision of the world, 1984 is so powerful that it is completely convincing from start to finish. No one can deny the influence of this novel, its hold on the imaginations of multiple generations of readers, or the resiliency of its admonitions—a legacy that seems only to grow with the passage of time.

ALL ANIMALS ARE EQUAL BUT SOME ANIMALS ARE MORE EQUAL THAN OTHERS A farm is taken over by its overworked, mistreated animals. With flaming idealism and stirring slogans, they set out to create a paradise of progress, justice, and equality. Thus the stage is set for one of the most telling satiric fables ever penned –a razor-edged fairy tale for grown-ups that records the evolution from revolution against tyranny to a totalitarianism just as terrible. When Animal Farm was first published, Stalinist Russia was seen as its target. Today it is devastatingly clear that wherever and whenever freedom is attacked, under whatever banner, the cutting clarity and savage comedy of George Orwell’s masterpiece have a meaning and message still ferociously fresh.

Animal Farm is Orwell’s classic satire of the Russian Revolution - an account of the bold struggle, initiated by the animals, that transforms Mr. Jones’s Manor Farm into Animal Farm - a wholly democratic society built on the credo that All Animals Are Created Equal. But are they?

It was George Orwell's early writing that helped shape his worldview and writing style. Here we focus on his works "The Spike" and "A Hanging," and his time as a police officer in Burma. Orwell's first published work was an essay titled "The Spike," which appeared in 1931. The essay is a vivid and harrowing account of his time spent in a homeless shelter in London. Orwell, who was struggling financially at the time, chose to experience a homeless shelter firsthand, and his account is an indictment of the dehumanizing conditions he encountered. In "The Spike," Orwell describes the brutal reality of life in the shelter, where men were treated like animals and forced to endure hunger, cold, and violence. "Shooting An Elephant" is too tragically eye-opening. This would later inform his political views and writing, particularly his belief in the importance of social justice and his struggle against oppression. In his essay "How the Poor Die," Orwell describes his observations of the poor and their struggle with illness and death. He portrays a society where the poor are neglected and left to suffer in silence and without dignity. This essay is another example of Orwell's commitment to social justice and his belief in the importance of empathy and compassion. In 1931, Orwell joined the Indian Imperial Police in Burma, where he served for five years. There he witnessed the brutal realities of colonialism and oppression. In his essay A Hanging," (1931), Orwell recounts the experience of attending the execution of a prisoner. Orwell describes the prisoner's final moments with empathy and his account of the execution is a moving critique of the dehumanizing effects of state-sanctioned violence. Orwell's experiences with poverty oppression and violence informed his later political and social beliefs As read by Emmy-nominated actor Geoffrey Giuliano. With a full biography of Orwell and selected quotations.

George Orwell 1984+

Imagine a world where freedom is a distant memory, and the government controls every aspect of your life. In the ruins of a post-apocalyptic London, Winston Smith lives in a society where independent thought is discouraged, and the totalitarian Party, led by the mysterious Big Brother, exercises total control. As Winston begins to question the Party's authority and rebel against its oppressive regime, he starts a secret love affair with a fellow worker, Julia. But in a world where telescreens monitor every move, and the Thought Police punish dissent, their rebellion is fraught with danger. A haunting and prophetic classic, "1984" is a gripping depiction of a dystopian future that is eerily relevant to our own times. Discover the chilling warning that has become a cultural touchstone, and experience the thrill of Orwell's masterpiece.

In 1984, London is a grim city where Big Brother is always watching you and the Thought Police can practically read your mind. Winston Smith joins a secret revolutionary organisation called The Brotherhood, dedicated to the destruction of the Party. Together with his beloved Julia, he hazards his life in a deadly match against the powers that be. Animal Farm is Orwell's classic satire of the Russian Revolution - an account of the bold struggle, initiated by the animals, that transforms Mr. Jones's Manor Farm into Animal Farm - a wholly democratic society built on the credo that All Animals Are Created Equal. But are they?

Animal Farm (Unabridged)

Animal Farm is an allegorical novella by George Orwell, first published in England on 17 August 1945. The book tells the story of a group of farm animals who rebel against their human farmer, hoping to create a society where the animals can be equal, free, and happy. Ultimately, however, the rebellion is betrayed, and the farm ends up in a state as bad as it was before, under the dictatorship of a pig named Napoleon. According to Orwell, the fable reflects events leading up to the Russian Revolution of 1917 and then on into the Stalinist era of the Soviet Union. Orwell, a democratic socialist, was a critic of Joseph Stalin and hostile to Moscow-directed Stalinism, an attitude that was critically shaped by his experiences during the Spanish Civil War. The Soviet Union, he believed, had become a brutal dictatorship built upon a cult of personality and enforced by a reign of terror. In a letter to Yvonne Davet, Orwell described Animal Farm as a satirical tale against Stalin ("un conte satirique contre Staline"), and in his essay "Why I Write" (1946), wrote that Animal Farm was the first book in which he tried, with full consciousness of what he was doing, "to fuse political purpose and artistic purpose into one whole".

As timeless as it is timely, "Animal Farm" is a satirical allegorical novella, by George Orwell, first published in England on 17 August 1945. It tells the story of a group of farm animals who rebel against their human farmer, hoping to create a society where the animals can be equal, free, and happy. Ultimately, the rebellion is betrayed, and under the dictatorship of a pig named Napoleon, the farm ends up in a state as bad as it was before. According to Orwell, Animal Farm reflects events leading up to the Russian Revolution of 1917 and then on into the Stalinist era of the Soviet Union. Orwell, a democratic socialist, was a critic of Joseph Stalin and hostile to Moscow-directed Stalinism, an attitude that was critically shaped by his experiences during the Barcelona May Days conflicts between the POUM and Stalinist forces during the Spanish Civil War. [a] In a letter to Yvonne Davet, Orwell described Animal Farm as a satirical tale against Stalin ("un conte satirique contre Staline"), and in his essay "Why I Write" (1946), wrote that Animal Farm was the first book in which he tried, with full consciousness of what he was doing, "to fuse political purpose and artistic purpose into one whole".

"Review of Adolph Hitler's 'Mein Kampf'" is an essay of George Orwell. "Mein Kampf" ("My Struggle" or "My Fight") is a 1925 autobiographical manifesto by Nazi Party leader Adolf Hitler. The work describes the process by which Hitler became antisemitic and outlines his political ideology and future plans for Germany. Volume 1 of "Mein Kampf" was published in 1925 and Volume 2 in 1926. The book was edited first by Emil Maurice, then by Hitler's deputy Rudolf Hess.

Review of Adolph Hitler's "Mein Kampf"

In George Orwell's timeless classic, "Animal Farm," a seemingly idyllic farm becomes the stage for a powerful and thought-provoking allegory. Set in a rural landscape, this remarkable novel examines the nature of power, corruption, and the human condition. When Old Major, a wise and respected boar, shares his vision of a utopian society, the animals of Manor Farm are captivated. Inspired by his words, they rise up against their human oppressors, overthrowing their human masters and establishing their own self-governed farm. Led by the pigs, notably the intelligent and manipulative Napoleon and the eloquent Snowball, the animals embrace the principles of "Animalism" and set out to create a fair and equal society. Initially, the farm thrives under the animals' collective efforts, with the Seven Commandments of Animalism serving as their guiding principles. However, as time passes, the pigs gradually assume more power and privilege, distorting the original vision of equality. The farm's transformation unfolds before the reader's eyes, as Orwell masterfully illustrates how power corrupts even the noblest of intentions. As the pigs consolidate their authority, the other animals witness a chilling erosion of their rights and freedoms. The novel vividly portrays the struggles, hardships, and disillusionment faced by the hardworking animals as they grapple with the stark reality that their revolution has been hijacked by those who crave power and control. "Animal Farm" is a captivating and deeply allegorical novel that holds a mirror to society's dynamics, exploring themes of totalitarianism, propaganda, and the dangers of unchecked authority. Orwell's sharp and incisive prose exposes the flaws and contradictions of human nature, challenging readers to question the nature of power and its ability to corrupt. Originally published in 1945, "Animal Farm" remains a literary masterpiece and a scathing critique of political systems and social hierarchies. It continues to resonate with readers of all ages, urging them to reflect on the fragility of democracy and the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of tyranny. With its compelling narrative, rich symbolism, and enduring relevance, George Orwell's "Animal Farm" is a must-read for anyone seeking to explore the complexities of power and the human struggle for freedom and equality.

In 1984 by George Orwell, one of the pivotal paragraphs that captures the essence of the novel is when Winston Smith reflects on the power and control exerted by the Party. This passage illustrates the Party's ability to manipulate reality and shape individual thought: "Who controls the past controls the future; who controls the present controls the past." This phrase encapsulates the totalitarian regime's grip on history and truth. By constantly rewriting records and altering facts, the Party ensures that they control not just the narrative of the past, but also how people think and perceive the present and future. It is a chilling depiction of the dangers of unchecked power and the erosion of personal freedom and truth under a totalitarian state. In Brave New World by Aldous Huxley, ollows Bernard Marx and John the Savage as they grapple with a society that prioritizes comfort and control over freedom and authentic human experience. Through this dystopian lens, Huxley critiques the dangers of a technologically advanced, consumer-driven society that strips away personal freedom and individuality. Crome Yellow, first novel by Aldous Huxley, published in 1921. The book is a social satire of the British literati in the period following World War I. The book revolves around the hapless love affair of Denis Stone, a sensitive poet, and Anne Wimbush. Anne’s uncle, Henry Wimbush, hosts a party at his country estate, Crome, that brings together a humorous coterie of characters. Aldous Leonard Huxley was an English writer and philosopher. He wrote nearly 50 books—both novels and non-fiction works—as well as wide-ranging essays, narratives, and poems. Born into the prominent Huxley family, he graduated from Balliol College, Oxford, with an undergraduate degree in English literature.

1984, Chrome Yellow, Brave New World

relevance|desc

publishdate|desc

publishdate|asc

rating|desc

title|asc

author_lastname|asc

BookBeat giver dig adgang til tusindvis af lydbøger direkte i din mobil. Find din næste favorit ved hjælp af vores forskellige toplister og kategorier.

Kan du lide at læse bøger? Oplev tusindvis af e-bøger på BookBeat. Vælg mellem forskellige genrer, såsom bestsellere, krimi, romantik, faglitteratur og meget mere!

Få adgang til tusindvis af e-bøger på din telefon. Bladre igennem vores katalog og find din næste yndlingsbog i dag!

På vores bogreol - Lydbøger

BookBeat giver dig mulighed for at nyde over 1 million lydbøger og e-bøger på din mobil og tablet. Prøv gratis!

BookBeat - Lydbøger og e-bøger. Prøv gratis!

Medmindre du er ude på eventyr, er det bedre at tilmelde dig på hjemmesiden {country}.

Du kan browse og finde de mest populære forfattere og bøger i BookBeat-appen her. Vi har et stort udvalg af forskellige forfattere og genrer, og denne liste vil helt sikkert inspirere dig til en god læseoplevelse i appen!

{AuthorName} bøger - BookBeat

{NarratorName} som oplæser - BookBeat

Er du på jagt efter din nye yndlingsoplæsere, eller har du en favorit, som du gerne vil lytte endnu mere til? Så har vi noget til dig! Vi har samlet alle de mest populære oplæsere og de bøger de har indlæst her.

Søg - BookBeat

Titel

En person, der tager opvasken, mens vedkommende lytter til BookBeat.

Forfatter

George Orwell

Kom i gang med BookBeat i dag

Om os

Følg os

Hjælp og kontakt

Oplysninger

BookBeat

Download BookBeat