Kaarten: Dystopian literature | Quizlet

What is a dystopia?

A negative futuristic depiction of society It is the opposite of a utopia, which is an ideal or perfect society.

What was one of the earliest dystopian novels ever published?

The Time Machine in 1895.

Name two of the classic dystopian novels ever published?

1) Fahrenheit 451 by Bradbury

2) Brave New World by Huxley

Why do you think dystopian literature has been so common throughout history?

Because people tend to be afraid of the unknown, and that is what makes us human.

What novel seemingly opened the floodgates for young-adult dystopian literature?

The Giver

Name four of the young-adult dystopian novels published since the year 2000.

1) Among the Hidden

2) Uglies

3) The Maze Runner

4) The City of Ember

Why do you think dystopian literature is such a popular trend among today's young adults.

Because teenagers start to think about their future and about how the world works.

Summarize at least two of the common story elements shared by most dystopian stories.

- Technology is used to oppress, monitor or manipulate people instead of improving their lives.

- An oppressive government enforces strict rules, surveillance and propaganda to maintain control over society.

- Group is more important than individual. (dehumanize them in order to control them)

Why do you think fictional utopias always tend to go horribly wrong and become dystopias?

Because nothing is perfect. There will always be problems in the world.

Why do you think the fictional survivors of an apocalypse always seem to end up creating dystopian societies?

Because they have been traumatized and just don't know better.

Name at least 4 of the common themes in dystopian literature.

1) the dangers of a particular type of government

2) the importance of knowledge and truth

3) the danger of allowing one group to have too much power

4) the importance of free will and individuality

5) the danger of technology