What is a Dystopia?
Dystopian Fiction is a type of literature. It is an imaginary society that is basically the worst possible society, the word dystopia is also the opposite of the word utopia, which is bascially a perfect society. There are also many different themes that are commonly presented in different pieces of dystopian literature which I will talk about shortly.
Common Themes of a Dystopia
Government Control
Technological Control
Environmental Destruction
Survival
Loss of Individualism
Government Control
Government plays a big role in dystopian literature. Generally, there is either no government or an oppressive ruling body.
Technological Control
Advanced science and technology in dystopian works go beyond tools for improving everyday life—technology is often depicted as a controlling, omnipresent force and is often used as a fear-mongering tactic.
Environmental Destruction
Dystopian novels are often set in places that are inhabitable, have been destroyed, or are preparing for destruction.
Survival
The oppressive powers and destruction in dystopian worlds often leave the inhabitants to fend for themselves.
Loss of Individualism
How should the needs of society as a whole compare to individual needs? Many dystopian futures depict the dangers of conformity.
MasterClass Staff. "What is Dystopian Fiction? Learn About the 5 Characteristics
of Dystopian Fiction With Examples." Master Class, 9 Sept. 2021,
www.masterclass.com/articles/
what-is-dystopian-fiction-learn-about-the-5-characteristics-of-dystopian-fiction-
with-examples#what-is-the-significance-of-dystopian-fiction. Accessed 17
May 2022.