The Narrator

Orwell never names his main character in this novel, and in refusing to give him a name, Orwell leads us to believe that the narrator symbolizes everyman. In light of the theme of man vs. society, not naming the main character makes perfect sense. The reader can readily identify with the main character, perhaps even substituting his own name for the narrator's.

Because the narrator represents everyman, it's important to note the characteristics Orwell gives him. The narrator is young, educated and capable, though he doesn't seem to work extra hard until he is forced to. He is critical of governments and religion, but he is open-minded when it comes to individual people. He is friendly and loyal to his associates, but he takes care of himself at the expense of others, if necessary, as when he takes the job in England and leaves Boris at the...