The theme of 1984

The theme of the novel is that political apathy can turn a society into a dystopia. The author tries to convey his message through detailed descriptions of characters in the novel; no one ever tries to overthrow the irrational society because they are too afraid of torture, death and risk. Since no one participates to change the world, Big Brother(or his advocaters) can easily sustain their power without desturbance. And the society will remain as a dystopia forever.
The novel will remind young people these days the importance of their political participation, who often consider election days as holidays.

Another theme can be the loss of humanity due to suppression and control. The author shows how torture can turn good man into a cunning one in short period through Winston. After Winston yelled at O'Brien to torture Julia, his good personalities and lawful belief, which can be interpreted as humanity, go away and Winston get brainwashed. Not only Winston, but also other characters suffer in the novel from supprssion; O'Brien wouldn't choose to follow Big Brother if he didn't have to. People wouldn't be so gloomy if every moment is being watched. Julia would keep on loving Winston if she wasn't tortured. All these people are nothing but 'toys' of Big Brother. Since teenagers are future leaders of their countries, the novel may influence even a nation's future. 1984 will make teenager readers those who are in democritic countries to think about human rights, and be thankful about their countries. For those who are in countries where there is only limited freedom, the novel may 'enlightened' them to pursue right things and may help them stand up for human rights later.