The Impact of the Spanish Civil War on George Orwell

Few would argue that experiencing the harsh realities that one is confronted with in wartime would change one's outlook on life, politics, the future and possibly, even the past. Previously insignificant events gradually come into focus as being of vital importance to our understanding of an issue and perspectives of all sorts on all issues are impacted, either leading to a change in perspective or a solidification of our current views. George Orwell's experience in the Spanish Civil War from 1936, unique as it was, was no different. Orwell's Spanish experience enabled considerable contact with those of varying political persuasions on the left, right and centre, thus Orwell's own political inclinations were slightly modified and disillusionment did arise with his experience with communism.…