Background
“Animal Farm” is an allegorical novella penned by George Orwell and published in 1945. It serves as a scathing critique of the Russian Revolution and the subsequent Stalinist era in the Soviet Union. Orwell uses animals on a farm to represent various political figures, societal classes, and historical events.
Setting the Scene
The story begins on Manor Farm, where the animals live under the oppressive rule of the drunken and neglectful farmer, Mr. Jones. Old Major, an aging boar, inspires the animals to envision a rebellion against human oppression. He introduces the idea of Animalism, a philosophy advocating for animal equality and the expulsion of humans.
Rise of Rebellion
After Old Major’s death, the animals, led by pigs Snowball and Napoleon, successfully revolt against Mr. Jones and take control of the farm. They establish Animal Farm, where all animals are considered equal and are promised a better life.
The Vision and Betrayal
Initially, the animals work together to create a society based on equality and fairness. The pigs, however, led by Napoleon, gradually seize power for themselves, betraying the principles of Animalism. They begin to manipulate the other animals, rewriting the laws to benefit themselves, and live luxuriously while the rest toil.
Manipulation and Corruption
Napoleon uses propaganda, fear, and manipulation to maintain control. He employs Squealer, a persuasive pig, to distort the truth and justify the pigs’ increasingly human-like behavior. The Seven Commandments of Animalism, which were meant to ensure equality, are changed to accommodate the pigs’ desires.
Degeneration of Ideals
As time passes, the farm becomes more oppressive than it was under human rule. The pigs align themselves with humans, breaking the original principles of Animalism. The other animals suffer greatly, facing hunger, overwork, and intimidation.
Final Reflections
In the closing chapters, the pigs become indistinguishable from the humans they initially rebelled against. The story concludes with the animals watching a heated dispute between the pigs and humans, realizing that they can no longer distinguish one from the other.
Animal Farm” stands as a cautionary tale about the corrupting nature of power and the danger of revolutions deviating from their original ideals, serving as a powerful allegory for the events surrounding the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalinism.
If You want to know more details about the Author Click This link ⬇️
➡️ Author Name: George Orwell
