Dystopian Society

What is a Dystopian Society?

What is a Dystopian Society? A futuristic, imagined universe in which oppressive societal control and the illusion of a perfect society are maintained through totalitarian control.

How does the Capitol maintain control?

What is a Dystopian Society? Generally set in the future. Where society is controlled by a totalitarian government (a government that has full control of its people). Propaganda (fear) is used to control the citizens of society. Information, independent thought, and freedom are prohibited.

What is a Dystopian Society? A figurehead or concept is worshipped by the citizens of society. Citizens are perceived to be under constant surveillance. Citizens live in a dehumanized (lack of rights, individualism, low quality of life) state.

What is a Dystopian Society? Citizens conform to uniform expectations. Individuality and dissent are bad. There is often an element of hope and rebellion. The natural world is banished and distrusted.

A Dystopian Protagonist A protagonist is the main character in a novel. A dystopian protagonist usually inherits the following characteristics: often feels trapped and is struggling to escape. questions the existing social and political systems. believes or feels that something is terribly wrong with the society in which he or she lives. helps the audience recognise the negative aspects of the dystopian world through his or her perspective.

Take home points Futuristic setting. Distrust and banishment of the natural world. Citizens live in a dehumanised state. Lack of freedom. Surveillance of citizens. The use of fear to control citizens. Uniformity over individuality. The use of propaganda. Hope and rebellion.

Activity Working with the person next to you, brainstorm (in dot points) answers to the question you are assigned. Write your dot points on the paper provided and hand back to Miss V at the end of the lesson. If Miss V says you and your partner are assigned question number 1, answer question number 1, and so on. Be prepared to share your ideas with the class.

Questions Remember to only answer the question your pair is assigned. Try to think of an example to back up what you’re saying. 1. Katniss often talks about the unjustness of the Games. Is it possible for one girl to overthrow a dystopian society? Why/why not? 2. Peeta says that he doesn’t want to become a monster in the Games. Is it important that he upholds his sense of self? Why/why not? 3. Katniss needs to woo the audience by using the star crossed lovers angle, even though she does not love Peeta. How can society force us to change? 4. How did Katniss’ burial of Rue’s body defy the Capitol and their rules? 5. What is the significance of Katniss’ berries at the end of the game?