As Shakespeare almost wrote: Orwell That Ends Well. While our six-part series on George Orwell comes to a triumphant end, Orwell’s life - alas - did not. He died too young and deeply pessimistic about the future of the world. 

In this last episode, Sophie and Jonty look at the bright side of life in Airstrip One, speculate what really lies within Room 101, and - REFORMATION ALERT - take a deep dive into the possible influence of 16th Century theological revolution on Winston Smith’s life (and betrayal). 

Finally, we step away from 1984 to reflect on this Orwell series as a whole: how do we feel about Orwell now, knowing what we do about his life, his triumphs and failures, and the controversy surrounding his treatment of his wife and women in general? 

Books referenced, quoted, or mentioned: 

Orwell: The New Life (2023) by DJ Taylor 

WIFEDOM (2023) by Anna Funder 

The Ministry of Truth: A Biography of George Orwell’s 1984 (2021) by Dorian Lynskey

Essays by George Orwell

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