Page 1: Primary Character Profiles

The opening introduces the central characters who drive the novel's exploration of individuality versus conformity. John emerges as the primary lens through which readers view the World State's flaws, having grown up outside its influence on the Savage Reservation with Shakespeare as his primary education.

Highlight: John's outsider perspective and Shakespearean knowledge provide crucial criticism of the World State's values.

Bernard Marx represents internal conflict within the system as an Alpha who struggles with social integration. His character arc shows both resistance and eventual capitulation to societal pressures.

Example: Bernard's transformation from isolated critic to social conformist after discovering John demonstrates the power of social acceptance.

Helmholtz Watson embodies intellectual resistance through his role at the College of Emotional Engineering, offering sophisticated critique of the World State's cultural superficiality.

Quote: "Criticises the world state in a philosophical way - shallow culture"

Lenina Crowne's character challenges social norms through her extended relationships, particularly with Bernard and John, though she remains largely aligned with World State values.

Definition: Beta caste - A social class in the World State hierarchy, positioned below Alphas but above lower castes.