World History II

Totalitarianism

“A State of Mind”
BBC Documentary on North Korea
This film provides a unique view into the lives of North Korean citizens. It follows
two girls preparing for the 2003 Mass Games, performed to celebrate and honor
General Kim Jong Il.

Objective: As you watch the film, answer the following questions and try to identify
any aspects of North Korean society that exemplify a totalitarian state.

Aspects of a totalitarian state:

-Dictatorship and one party rule
- A dynamic leader
- Ideology
- Total state control
- Obedience of the individual
- Use of mass media and modern technology
- Organized violence

1. What is the purpose of the Mass Games?

2. How do the performers feel about participating in the Mass Games?

3. How do North Korean citizens in this film view their leader, Kim Jong Il?
4. What is North Korea’s view of the United States? How does the leadership
use this to control the people?

5. What is life like in the capital city of Pyongyang?

6. What was the Arduous March?