In my version of Dystopia, the definition would be as follows: An illusion of a perfect society where circumstances, persons, and individuality are constantly manipulated. Individuals within Dystopian Societies are made to believe that extreme, inhumane conditions are normal. These individuals are then forced to abide by laws and policies that are immoral and unethical, and are not allowed to challenge these policies due to the threat of violence or death. Citizens are stripped of their individuality and their personal autonomy in order to cater to these laws. It is believed that individuality within a dystopian society causes disobedience and the will to work against the state, which holds control. These societies may have order, but that order has fear embedded in it. Dystopias can be compared to a nightmare, where chaos and violence ensues.
Based on my experience with novels and films, I believe authors and filmmakers create clear pictures of dystopian societies. For example, The Handmaid’s Tale is a clear depiction of how a dystopian society would be conducted. Citizens were stripped of their individuality, forced to wear certain clothes and behave a certain way, and forced to abide by laws that were unethical and immoral. Elites and Government officials were able to control the individuals of their state, and dictate woman belonged to which family. There was rebellion, and extreme violence soon ensued within the providence. If analyzing films and novels as such, conclusions can be drawn to both my definition of Dystopia and the official/literal meaning of the word. There is a middle ground that can be reached when observing certain films and novels–all capitalize on the literal meaning of the word ‘Bad Place.’ Novelist and Directors are able to transform the definition of this word, and create clear images of what a dystopian society would look and feel like. It is almost as if they produce these movies, in order for us to have a clear idea, but also to develop our own.
