Grace Analyzing Utopian and Dystopian Novels

  As Winston finally cracked down on his fear of rats, he chose to betray Julia. From this scene, I expected that he wouldn't ever go back to his normal life and I assumed that Julia and his relationship would end. However, it was still hard to see this lifestyle playout for Winston. The reason why this is not a happy ending is that although Winston didn't die, he was left with such a small piece of himself. Honestly, I still can't decide if living as an empty shell of who you used to be is better than dying.   What do you guys think of this ending? Is Winston's life good now? He is an alcoholic and still seems miserable. Wouldn't it be so hard to live after going through months of torture and having your identity taken away?

I find these chapters of 1984 so depressing, not only because of the physical torture itself but because O'Brien used Winston's fear  to take over Winston's mind. Throughout the weeks of O'Brien torturing Winston, I was surprised to see Winston fight back at some moments. Even after getting shocked dozens of times, starved, brutally beaten up, "supposedly" betrayed by Julia, his emotions and inner heart had stayed true to what he believed. I admired how he refused to let go of reality, love, and how he refused to betray Julia. Therefore, I find it somewhat ironic and depressing that Winston gave up this inner heart and will to survive because of his fear of rats. He survived through other horrible things, but in the end, he couldn't overcome his mind.  (Start video @ 1 min)   I completely understand Winston -- I hate rats as well, especially if they eat your face--, but I feel like Orwell purposely chose a personal attack on Winston. This ...