What is the main conflict in George Orwell's "1984"?

The primary conflict in George Orwell's "1984" is centered on the struggle between the individual and oppressive government control. This theme is vividly illustrated through the protagonist, Winston Smith, who grapples with the authoritarian regime of the Party, which seeks to suppress personal freedoms, individuality, and independent thought.

The oppressive surveillance, propaganda, and brutal tactics employed by the government create an environment where personal expression is stifled. Winston's yearning to seek truth and develop a sense of self in the face of such overwhelming control underscores the core conflict of the narrative. His attempts to rebel against the Party's dictates highlight the tension between personal identity and the collective demands of an authoritarian state, emphasizing the importance of individual thought in a world that tries to eradicate it.

This struggle serves as a powerful commentary on the dangers of totalitarianism and the lengths to which authorities may go to maintain power, making it a central theme of the novel.