This world ain’t perfect… Dystopia This world ain’t perfect…

What is a dystopia? Dystopia is the opposite of utopia which means “a perfect society.” A dystopia would be a futuristic imperfect society that is highly controlled. They often make a criticism about a current trend, societal norm, or political system through an exaggerated scenario. Where have we seen a dystopian story before? Short stories like “The Lottery” Contemporary novels like The Hunger Games trilogy

Characteristics of a Dystopian Society They are ruled by a totalitarian government Propaganda is used to control the citizens of society. Information, independent thought, and freedom are restricted. A figurehead or concept is worshipped by the citizens of the society. Citizens are perceived to be under constant surveillance. Citizens have a fear of the outside world.

Characteristics of a Dystopian Society Citizens live in a dehumanized state. The natural world is banished and distrusted. Citizens conform to uniform expectations. Individuality and dissent is bad. The society is an illusion of a perfect utopian world. In other words, citizens don’t realize it’s not perfect.

Dystopian Protagonists Often feel trapped and are struggling to escape their society. Question the existing social and political systems. Believe or feel that something is terribly wrong with the society in which they live. Helps the audience recognize the negative aspects of the dystopian world through their perspective.

So what Dystopian story are we reading???

Things to know before reading… The characters in Divergent live in a futuristic society that is starting to have some problems. The protagonists are named Beatrice and Three, and they are teenagers that must make some serious choices regarding their future. In the society of Divergent, every citizen belongs to one of five groups. The groups are referred to as factions.

faction noun. a group or clique within a larger group, party, government or organization Abnegation noun. 1. the act of denying oneself of rights, conveniences, etc. 2. the act of giving something up

Erudite adj. learned or scholarly; characterized by great knowledge Amity noun. 1. friendship 2. peaceful harmony; mutual understanding and a peaceful relationship, especially between nations 3. cordiality

Dauntless adj. fearless; courageously resolute, especially in the face of danger or difficulty; not discouraged Candor noun. 1. the state or quality of being frank, open and sincere in speech or expression; candidness 2. freedom from bias; fairness and impartiality

divergent noun. deviating from what is expected; different

Sears Tower - Chicago