Comparative Analysis of the Representation of Political Power in Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables" and George Orwell's 1984

Abstract

The representation of power is in parallel with oppression and injustice: both novels evoke societies where power is exercised in an oppressive and unjust way. The French judicial system is corrupt and cruel in "Les Misérables", while in "1984", the totalitarian party controls all aspects of citizens' lives. Dehumanization and alienation: The power exercised in the two novels dehumanizes and alienates beings. Jean Valjean is being hunted by the police for a crime he committed 19 years ago, while Winston Smith is tortured and lobotomized for daring to think for himself in "1984". Despite the oppression, both novels offer glimmers of hope thanks to the resistance of the characters. Jean Valjean represents redemption and compassion, while Winston Smith and Julia symbolize the individual struggle against tyranny. In "Les Misérables", power is represented by corrupt institutions and individuals, while in "1984", it is represented by the totalitarian Party, an abstract and omnipresent entity. The nature of power is mixed. Methods of control: in "Les Misérables", control is carried out by brute force and surveillance, in "1984", by propaganda, psychological manipulation and mass surveillance. Future: "Les Misérables" proposes a utopia of a more equal and humane society, "1984" a dystopia where totalitarian power is absolute and freedom non-existent. In "Les Misérables" and "1984", the comparative analysis of the representation of political power highlights the diversity of forms involved in oppression and the complexity of the struggles for freedom and justice. Both novels invite us to question the nature of power, its risks and the ways in which it is challenged.