Though it is prominent in 1984, Sandra Newman’s Julia puts more emphasis on the division between hierarchy of classes in Oceania. The Proles are shown to be fearful of messing with both Inner and Outer Party members, even going so far as to make sure that Julia is okay when someone attempts to rob her, even though they do not actually care about her. That being said, Julia understands this and shows disdain for the proles in this moment:
“They could at least have offered to punish the robber—but what nonsense to expect rightful behavior from a pack of criminals! As she walked off, she was miserably conscious of the pain that throbbed in her wrist with every step, the injury none of them had cared to notice” (Newman 102).
The hope to become a part of the higher class is also very present in this story. This is especially true for Julia, who is recruited by O’Brien to work as a spy for the Inner Party. He promises her that she can become a part of the Inner Party, in which there are many benefits, including a nicer place to live, as well as better food and amenities. Julia comes from a very poor and unfortunate background, so the promise of an even better lifestyle than the one she currently has is extremely appealing to her:
“‘But of course you too will be of the Inner Party in time.’ As he said it, his eyes subtly moved to acknowledge their surroundings. She sat up straighter, trying not to show how this arrow had found its mark. Again she was conscious of the elegance of the flat, its sweeping view, its finer air” (Newman 198).
O’Brien uses Julia’s hope to join the higher class as a way to manipulate her into doing what he wants. He could be telling the truth, but it is unclear whether this is truly genuine; he could play the part until he gets what he wants. Julia becomes more aware of this later on, though it possibly too late. The class hierarchy helps impose Big Brother’s influence even further, and keeps the people in check.