In 1984, Winston Smith is portrayed as an ordinary person who represents the oppressed citizens of Oceania. Orwell uses Winston as a relatable character, allowing readers to see the consequences of living under a totalitarian regime. However, whether Winston can be considered a hero and someone readers can admire and emulate is open to interpretation. Throughout the novel, Winston demonstrates bravery and rebellion against the Party's oppressive control. He questions the Party's slogans, engages in forbidden activities such as writing in a diary, and initiates a secret love affair with Julia. These actions show Winston's desire for freedom and his defiance against the Party's oppressive rule. In this sense, Winston can be seen as a hero for standing up against injustice and inspiring readers to question authority. However, as the novel progresses, Winston's rebellion gradually weakens. He is captured by the Thought Police, subjected to torture, and eventually succumbs to the Party's manipulation and indoctrination. In the end, Winston betrays Julia and fully embraces Big Brother, erasing his individuality and becoming a loyal Party member. This turn of events challenges the perception of Winston as a hero, as his actions ultimately result in his submission to the very forces he once resisted. The outcome of Winston's actions is crucial in assessing his heroism. While his initial acts of rebellion may be admirable, the ultimate defeat and surrender overshadow his earlier bravery. Winston's cry at the end of the novel signifies his broken spirit, marking a stark contrast to the heroism commonly associated with traditional protagonists. Nevertheless, the interpretation of Winston's character and his heroism can vary among readers. Some may argue that Winston's struggle and his eventual submission make him a tragic hero, highlighting the power and relentlessness of a totalitarian regime. Others may find his actions admirable, considering the immense pressure and manipulation he faced. In summary, Winston Smith's role as the protagonist in 1984 presents a complex portrayal of heroism. While his initial rebellion and defiance against the Party's control may inspire admiration, his ultimate surrender and submission to Big Brother raise doubts about his hero status. Ultimately, whether readers perceive Winston as a hero and someone to admire and emulate depends on their individual perspectives and interpretations of the novel.
