Title: Two Minutes Hate 1984 - eNotes.com
Headings: Two Minutes Hate 1984
1984
Two Minutes Hate 1984
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Content: The Two Minutes Hate is also important to the plot of the story and is a moment when Winston Smith "connects" with O'Brien. During the ritual, Winston believes that he detects unorthodoxy in O'Brien. Winston begins to view O'Brien as an ally and writes to him in his private journal. Winston also experiences a connection with Julia, who will become a prominent figure in his life later in the story. Therefore, the Two Minutes Hate contributes to the plot of the story and is a significant moment in Winston's life. Further Reading
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Last Updated by eNotes Editorial on December 15, 2020
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In 1984, the Two Minutes Hate is a collective act of affirmation in which Party members gather in front of a telescreen to express their hatred of the Party's enemies. For this two minutes, the words of Emmanuel Goldstein, the Enemy of the People and leader of the clandestine opposition which Winston later attempts to join, are broadcast, while his image appears on the telescreen. Orwell remarks that the program of the Two Minutes' Hate varies each day, but Goldstein is always the principal figure. The Two Minutes Hate is important as a plot device in the story because it regularly brings Winston into contact with both Julia and O'Brien (who is a member of the Inner Party and, therefore, not someone whose life would otherwise intersect with Winston's). It is also important as a demonstration of the way in which the Party compels loyalty and orthodoxy.