Winston and Julia

    The differences between Winston and Julia, mainly their age and the era they grew up in directly influence the ways in which they respond to the Party's repression. Winston, who is thirty-nine years old, was born and grew up before the establishment of the new government. Looking back on his childhood, Winston still remembers traditional families and how they were still based on, "privacy, love and friendship[...]and stood by one another without needing to know the reason" (30). Now an adult, living in this dystopian society, Winston recognizes just how far social norm has evolved, in this case, family structure. His neighbors the Parsons are a family shaped by the government so that the children are raised to be, "ungovernable little savages" trained from a young age to be faithful to the Party. Winston senses this change in social standards and understands the extent of the government's influence.
     Julia, age 26, is not familiar with the customs of the bygone era is not saddened by the new world. Her desire to rebel comes from her search for pleasure unlike Winston who searches for comfort in the past. Having grown up in this society, Julia's rebellious tendencies, especially her sexuality are perused specifically for personal pleasure.  Even though the presence of government in her upbringing has stunted her ability to properly process empathy, [her defiance towards the Party]... somehow seemed natural and healthy,"(122). She is however familiar with the Party's workings which helps her continue her disobedience. Although they come from different times and have different perspectives of the government, Winston and Julia's relation is strengthened by their shared  hatred for the Party and sexual desire for each other.