Winston

Winston and Offred

Winston and Offred use a form of mental escapism in the form of 'flashbacks'. This is where both characters re-live parts of there pasts that symbolize happier free times.

In Offreds case she mentions early on in the novel “remembering not to forget“, in essence remembering the past frequently so as she never forgets the small details that gave her life meaning and diversity. In Winstons case his escape may not always be flashbacks, as some of the flashbacks he has are disturbing. Some of the flashbacks Winston has however including those of his mother help him to remember a time of mental freedom. Winstons only other escape is the diary he keeps. It allows him the freedom to put his thoughts on paper.

On one point that contrasts there dealings of society, Winston does a lot of things in his power to rebel against the party and anything that goes along with it while Offred just plays along until the end where she makes her stand. Winston keeps a diary which is obviously thought crime and involves with sexual encounters with other party members which is also a crime.

Both have lots of thoughts in there head especially of revolt against there corresponding parties. Although they may not both take blatant measures to revolt against the party they definitely think of ways to overthrow and live in a utopia.

Both are involved in fictitious dystopian lives that are extreme to the points of living awful lives.

Winston experiences totalitarianism while Offred endures feminism

Both characters maintain a lot of individuality