Identity

We’ve looked at a couple characters in utopian societies who take on a new identity. Anderton takes on the identity of Ernest Temple. Vincent becomes Jerome. Lauren disguises herself as a man. Each character does this to conceal something about him or herself and/or conform to societal expectations. Gattaca and Brave New World also look at DNA as a means of classification. Perhaps, then, there is an element of utopia within our identities. Despite the surrounding society, there are characters who go with the majority and those who stand out as unfitting in some manner. Maybe utopia could be unique to each individual, that everyone has to find an idea of utopia within themselves no matter what is going on in the outside world. That utopia could be conforming with a rigid government, branching out to start a new society, or something in between. Whatever satisfies the individual is his or her unique utopia rather than the outside forces attempting to create it and fit everyone into the same mold.