The Well-Doer

Character Analysis

We went back and forth on whether the Well-Doer qualified as a character or as a symbol. Like 1984's Big Brother, he exists as a symbol of the larger State that controls and dominates all life. Unlike Big Brother, we actually get to meet the guy: usually when he's doing jerky things like overseeing executions and calling for his unanimous election. He even calls up D-503 on the phone at one point. So despite his "cast iron hands" (36.1) and other appearances to the contrary, we have to accept that somewhere in there is an actual guy.

Nevertheless, his role here is largely symbolic: the centerpiece of the One State and the ultimate instrument of its will. The rebels are defined by their defiance of Him, the loyal "Numbers" by their love and adoration of what He represents. He seems omnipotent, but as we learn in the election, He's not perfect: a monolithic image with a few cracks for an enterprising rebel to exploit.