utopias and dystopias

1. utopias and dystopias An Introduction

2. Utopia: a definition • An ideally perfect place, an impractical idealistic scheme. • The word “utopia” comes from two Greek words: “oi” (not) and “topos” (place) = “nowhere.” • The word was created by Sir Thomas More in 1516 when he wrote a book by that title.

3. Characteristics of a utopia • Poverty and misery are removed. • Money no longer exists. • Very few laws are necessary. • The society is free of class systems, so all are equal. • View on the future is optimistic and upbeat.

4. Religious utopian concepts • The Judeo-Christian concept of the Garden of Eden and Heaven. • The Buddhist concept of Nirvana.

5. Dystopia: a definition • Dystopia: A futuristic, imagined universe in which society is oppressed and the illusion of perfection is maintained through some form of control. • There are many types of control, including media, technology, and religious ideologies. • Dystopias are exaggerated worst-case scenarios that usually criticize a current trend, societal norm, or political system.

6. Characteristics of dystopia • Propaganda is used to control the citizens of society. • Information, independent thought, and freedom are restricted. • A leader or idea is worshipped by the citizens of the society. • Citizens are supposedly under constant surveillance. • Citizens have a fear of the outside world. • Citizens live in a dehumanized state. • Citizens conform to uniform expectations; individuality and difference are bad.

7. The dystopian protagonist • Often feels trapped and is struggling to escape. • Questions the existing social and political systems. • Believes or feels that something is terribly wrong with the society in which he or she lives. • Helps the audience recognize the negative aspects of the dystopian world through his or her perspective.