Dystopian: meaning, definitions and examples
ποΈ
dystopian
[ dΙͺΛstoΚ.pi.Ιn ]
descriptive literature
Dystopian refers to an imagined society that is far worse than our current one, typically characterized by oppressive societal control, authoritarian governments, and environmental disaster. These societies are often portrayed in literature and film as cautionary tales about the potential future outcomes of contemporary issues.
Synonyms
apocalyptic, authoritarian, nightmarish, totalitarian
Examples of usage
- The novel depicts a dystopian future where technology controls every aspect of life.
- In a dystopian world, individual freedoms are often sacrificed for the supposed greater good.
- Dystopian themes can be found in many classic works, including '1984' and 'Brave New World.'
Etymology
The term 'dystopian' is derived from the word 'utopia', which was first coined by Sir Thomas More in his 1516 book 'Utopia', describing an ideal society. The prefix 'dys-' comes from the Greek word 'dys-', meaning 'bad' or 'difficult', indicating a society that is the opposite of an ideal utopian world. Dystopian literature gained significant popularity in the 20th century, particularly during periods of social upheaval, war, and totalitarian regimes. Works such as George Orwell's '1984' and Aldous Huxley's 'Brave New World' critically explored the consequences of losing personal freedoms and the dangers of oppressive governments, solidifying the term's association with cautionary tales about the future. Dystopian narratives often serve as a means to reflect on contemporary societal issues and the potential consequences of political, technological, and environmental changes.