George Orwell (1903-1950) is one of the most celebrated writers in the history of English literature. Perhaps most famous for his novels Animal Farm (1945) and Nineteen Eighty-Four, Orwell was also the author of political polemics, literary essays and a great deal of journalism. In his writings on everyday things such the common toad, boys’ weeklies, cups of tea and sexy seaside postcards he virtually invented the discipline of cultural studies.

Indeed, the persistence of George Orwell and ‘Orwellian’ as reference points in the mass media, in the broader culture and in current political debates is remarkable. After the NSA contractor and whistleblower Edward Snowden in June 2013 revealed through the London-based Guardian and other international news media details of the massive global surveillance systems operated by intelligence agencies in the United States and United Kingdom, Orwell’s Nineteen Eighty-Four – and its description of a Big Brother society in which the state intrudes into the inner-most parts of everyday life – was a constant reference point, globally.

Orwell must be one of the most commented upon writers today. Yet still remarkable new insights into his life and writings continue to appear.

George Orwell Studies aims to explore and debate major issues relating to Orwell’s life and works through a range of genres: academic papers, shorter articles, polemical pieces, reviews and news items. In particular, it will aim to promote international perspectives. Its work is supported by a distinguished editorial board of Orwell scholars and experts.

'An exciting, new scholarly journal to bring an end to the curious academic neglect of Orwell's magisterial writings and ideas; including his journalism.'
Bob Franklin, Professor of Journalism Studies, Cardiff University

'The arrival of George Orwell Studies is a very welcome and long overdue event. It will allow the true richness and variety of Orwell's writing to be explored.'
Steven Connor, Grace 2 Professor of English, University of Cambridge

'That George Orwell now has an academic journal devoted to his works indicates the scale and significance of his achievement. That the master reviewer sets a high standard for his reviewers is something the editors and contributors to Vol. 1, No. 1 clearly understand.
At last, somewhere to focus.'
Robert Colls, Professor of Cultural History, De Montfort University, author of George Orwell: English Rebel