George Orwell ​

Eric Arthur Blair, known by his pen name George Orwell, was an English novelist, essayist, journalist and critic. His work is characterized by lucid prose, awareness of social injustice, opposition to totalitarianism, and outspoken support of democratic socialism. Orwell wrote literary classics including "Animal Farm" and "Nineteen Eighty-Four".

Quick Facts ​

• Known for his works of social commentary, including the iconic novels "1984" and "Animal Farm"
• His works have been translated into more than 65 languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide.
• The term "Orwellian" is often used to describe totalitarian or manipulative social practices, and has entered the popular lexicon in conjunction with his name.
• His essays, as a critic of literature, are also widely acclaimed.
• Considered one of the 20th century’s greatest novelists.

Background ​

Orwell was born Eric Arthur Blair in 1903 in Motihari, Bihar, British India, to a British colonial civil servant. He was educated in England at Eton College. Following his schooling, he joined the India Imperial Police in Burma, serving there from 1922 to 1927 before deciding to become a writer. He moved to Paris where he worked various odd jobs while writing his first works.

Upon his return to England, he settled into writing novels and essays and developed a reputation for his astute and powerful political commentary. His best known works, Animal Farm (1945) and Nineteen Eighty-Four (1949), reflect his nightmarish vision of totalitarian regimes. Orwell died at the young age of 46 from tuberculosis. Despite his rather short career, Orwell's novel 1984 coined terms, such as Big Brother, thoughtcrime, newspeak, and doublethink, which have since entered everyday use.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Orwell was a masterful storyteller with a clear, concise, and direct writing style. His work was politically charged, often containing sharp social criticism and biting satire. His dystopian novels are characterized by their exploration of themes such as totalitarianism, authoritarianism, and political corruption. Orwell's work has had a significant impact on both popular culture and political discourse, and he is still regarded as one of the most influential writers of the 20th century.

Notable Works ​

• Animal Farm (1945)
• Nineteen Eighty-Four (1949)
• Down and Out in Paris and London (1933)
• Burmese Days (1934)
• Homage to Catalonia (1938)