Winston Smith As A Hero in 1984 Analysis Essay

In the Novel 1984 by George Orwell, The most heroic character seen is none other than the main character; Winston Smith. While he may seem pretty aloof and nonchalant throughout most of the novel he still fits the criteria for being a hero up until the very end of the story. The most prominent heroic quality he shows is his bravery which is mostly seen in his rebellion against the Party. Another heroic quality Winston possesses is his determination which he attempts to use to better his circumstances. The last heroic quality he possesses is his humanity. Winston seems to be the one of the last people on earth that still has the benevolence of modern day. 

Winston’s bravery is his most prominent heroic quality as seen in two major points in the story. The first is when he first leaves the city to “meet” Julia. Winston fully knows the repercussions that would follow if he is caught and still risks it all to see Julia. The other occurrence where Winston shows his bravery is when he purchases the diary from Mr. Charrignton despite the harsh punishment associated with it.  

Winston’s second heroic trait is his determination which he uses to better his circumstances. This is seen when he rents out the room from Mr. Charrington so he can “meet up” with Julia. This shows his determination by risking almost everything just to better his miserable life. This is different from most of the people in the story who have just given up and decided to live under the tyranny of Oceania. 

Winston's last heroic quality is his humanity. Everyone around him seems fine with the tyranny with which the inner party rules whereas Winston at least sees the problems with the world around him. An example of his humanity is how Winston views the proles compared to other civilians, he merely sees them as the most free individuals whereas others (specifically the party) thinks of them as natural inferiors.