Analysis Of A Clockwork Orange By Anthony Burgess

This past month, I read the novel A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess. After choosing this piece, I did a little research on the author and his work. To my surprise, A Clockwork Orange is a classic novel that has been widely acclaimed. In 1971, the novel was even translated into the film industry by Warner Brothers Company. The movie skyrocketed book sales throughout the world and thus the film adaptation cemented the book even further to the top of the acclaimed reading list. Anthony Burgess often expresses that he wishes he was not widely known for what he calls his most “minor” work (“A Clockwork Orange,” n.d.). Anthony Burgess himself, did not publish his first works until he was around 40 years old. He may have never followed through …show more content…
This novel is rich in themes, motifs, and symbols from beginning to end. Burgess was raised in a Catholic home and had strong views towards subject matter such as the products he believed Communist government bred. This includes subject matter such as the repression of the individual, consequentialy leading to the elimination of free will, and the overall demanding power of the state (government). Alex, the protagonist of the story, becomes a central instrument within the government’s …show more content…
While, conditioning techniques can create favorable behavior outcomes, the process to do this eliminates choice of the individual and thus reduces them to a brainwashed minion. Much of Skinner’s theories were tested on animals, and while fit for the training of animals the saem should not be applicable for human beings. In his article in New Yorker, Burgess says, “much of his experimental work has been with animals; some of his achievements in animal conditioning approach a high professional circus level” (Burgess, 2012). Humans are not circus animals to be showcase, but individuals with the freedom of