1984
In literature, symbolism is used in many great novels to foreshadow major themes and events. George Orwell’s use of symbolism in 1984 is no different. Orwell uses what would seem to be common objects throughout a novel as a way to foreshadow major conflicts and character traits. The symbols used in the book, like Big Brother, the diary, the coral paperweight, O’Brien’s apartment, and the rats, all have a significant impact on the downfall of the book’s main character and protagonist, Winston Smith. Big Brother is an important symbol in the novel because he embodies the control and power of the Party. The Party is the ruling head of Oceania, the setting of the novel. The Party is all-powerful, using drastic measure to spy and control it’s citizens and uses the idea of Big Brother as a propaganda tool.