We- Journal 2- Topic C

In the novel We, author Yevgeny Zamyatin criticizes the vesting of too much power in government. This was likely an influence of the rise of totalitarian regimes in the early 20th century, namely the soviet union, who seized power from citizens at an alarming rate, and by force of arms and propaganda, dictating most aspects of life and dehumanizing civilians. The society in We is merely a very exaggerated totalitarian regime, whose power and influence are extended to new levels by use of technology. From its glass apartment, to mandatory auditorium sessions, the government in We has trampled on individual rights, such as privacy, and freedom to dissent. While the vision given by Zamyatin appears quite over the top, it nonetheless evokes a strong response from the reader, and shows what could happen if any central authority is given too much power over the individual. Thankfully however, Zamyatin provides some hope- hope placed in the spirit of the individual. The individuals must rise up and seize their rights in society, rather than meekly stand by and be ravished, and the hope for improvement rests entirely on the individual (as is exemplified by the protagonist D-503, and I-330, both of whom are individual citizens rebelling against society as a whole). Thus such oppression can be prevented, but only if the individual stands up for his rights.