Leon, Donna: *1942
Uniform Justice, 2003 - Thematic Parallels: Corruption
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Leon, Donna: Uniform Justice, 2003, ~300pp
The novel is very philosophical, examining how chance and randomness shape human existence, the illusion of free will, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. - The following books are thematically simliar. These texts lend themselves well to being read in groups, compared with one another, or used to teach a similar topic over an extended period with a class:
Harris, Robert: Imperium, 2006, ~400pp
A historical novel, which involves political intrigue and corruption in Roman times.
- Despite their differences in time and setting, both novels are preoccupied with corruption, compromised justice, and the struggle of principled individuals navigating institutions built to favor the powerful.- Moore, Brian: Lies of Silence, 1990, ~210pp
A novel involving themes around political corruption or social unrest.
- In both novels, institutions designed to uphold justice are shown as deeply flawed and morally compromised. They explore the tension between personal conscience and societal/political forces. Each novel is a social critique, using the crime/mystery framework to expose larger societal failures. - Orwell, George: Animal Farm, 1954, ~90pp
A novella that allegorizes corruption and power abuse in political systems.
- Both novels critique how institutions—whether governments, armies, or revolutionary movements—protect themselves, manipulate truth, and betray ordinary members of society. They highlight the fragility of justice when power is unchecked. - Orwell, George: Nineteen Eighty-Four, 1949, ~320pp
A novel about totalitarian control and political corruption.
- Both novels share a preoccupation with power, corruption, and the difficulty of resisting unjust systems. They show that institutions can warp truth and obstruct justice, leaving individuals frustrated, silenced, or defeated.
- List of general discussion questions on Corruption (pdf)
- List of essay prompts on Corruption (pdf)