Explanation:
In George Orwell’s novel 1984, the character O’Brien plays a crucial role in the plot as a member of the Inner Party who pretends to be part of the elusive Brotherhood. This is done as a ruse to lure the protagonist, Winston Smith, into committing thoughtcrime and eventually betraying the anti-authoritarian movement. From a literary perspective, it can be argued that O’Brien’s pretended membership in the Brotherhood serves multiple functions. Firstly, it creates a sense of mystery and intrigue around the character, making him seem more powerful and enigmatic to the reader. This makes him a more compelling antagonist for Winston and adds to the tension of the plot. Moreover, O’Brien’s pretended membership in the Brotherhood allows for more explicit exploration of the Party’s policies.