AP Quality

It seems as if every book I've read this year for AP English includes some sort of an uncomfortable sex scene. And I'm beginning to make the assumption that that's the standard the College Board uses to determine a book of AP quality. Of course, this is not the case. However, beyond the sexual material, 1984  is certainly worthy of AP as it holds many characteristics that remain a constant theme throughout all of the AP books I have read so far.

First, it conveys a good message which is an important criteria of an AP. Orwell already is a renowned author to me after reading Animal Farm. By reading this new book, he once again conveys a strong message about the importance of holding government accountable, individualism, and the importance of the past.

Additionally, the stylistic techniques he employs are of AP level. On the surface, his simplistic use of syntax and diction may lead one to think that it is not very deep. But with further investigation that an AP student can pick up on, we can see that his simple style has deep meaning. This society described is very bland and individuals have little opportunity to think for themselves or tread on the road less traveled. Therefore, Orwell does a good job imitating his fictional world with his writing style. This a technique that mostly can be distinguished by an AP student. Also, the level of irony and satire he uses also makes it an AP worthy work. Not only the irony itself, but the conclusion he attempts to illuminate through the technique.  It is almost laughable when "it had been announced [by Big Brother] that Oceania was not after all at war with Eurasia. Oceania was at war with Eastasia. Eurasia was an ally" (148). And the citizens came to the conclusion that their anti-Eurasian posters displayed during Hate Week  "was sabotage [and] the agents of Goldstein had been at work" (149). This irony shows that absolute ignorance and sheepish manner of those under totalitarian rule. By applying techniques like irony, Orwell creates an AP worthy book.

I could definitely reference this novel on the AP exam. One, it is a dystopian novel which can be used in an essay that references the idea. Also, the book employs irony very effectively and I could reference it. Additionally, I could easily compare it to other dystopian novels that we have read this year, such as Brave New World and Handmaid's Tale, if asked to in an essay. As for the book being taught in the AP curriculum next year, I would not advise it. Although it is of AP quality, I don't think it could fit nicely. Brave New World is a similar book and also more versatile for discussion as it not only covers oppressive governments, but also human connections, and other social issues. Although totalitarian rule is not solely the underlying meaning of 1984, it is not as distinct as Brave New World. 

All in all, I would not be surprised if I saw a question on this book on the exam this spring and I'm ready to possibly reference it in my open response question.