Introduction
What happens when freedom fighters become the very thing they despised? It’s a question Orwell’s Animal Farm asks brilliantly, and it reminded me of something I’d read about Lenin. He used Tolstoy’s critiques of society to justify the Bolshevik Revolution, but the outcome was nothing like Tolstoy’s vision of justice and peace. The same twist of fate plays out in this book. Major’s speech, with its hopeful call for equality and freedom, echoes the lofty ideals of early revolutionary leaders. But just as Lenin’s Marxist ideas were warped into a tool for Stalin’s control, Napoleon and his circle twist Major’s dream into a nightmare of tyranny.
Animal Farm takes us to a barnyard where the animals overthrow their human oppressors to build a society of fairness and equality. At first, it feels like a fresh start, but greed and ambition quickly erode their dream. This short yet deeply impactful book is a clever allegory about politics, power, and how easily ideals can be corrupted. Whether you’re a fan of political intrigue or just curious about a world where pigs act like politicians (because they’re kind of good at it), this book is a must-read.
Plot Summary
In Animal Farm, the animals of Manor Farm are fed up with their miserable lives under Mr. Jones, a neglectful and abusive farmer. Led by the pigs Snowball and Napoleon, they stage a rebellion, driving Mr. Jones away and taking over the farm. They renamed it “Animal Farm” and created seven commandments, promising a utopia where all animals are equal. At first, things look promising, with the animals working hard for their collective good.
But cracks soon appear. Power-hungry and cunning, Napoleon uses fear and propaganda to push Snowball out and take control. Under Napoleon’s rule, the pigs begin to bend the rules, enjoying privileges while the other animals toil harder than ever. The ideals of equality fade away as the pigs transform into the very oppressors they replaced, even walking on two legs like humans.
The story’s core conflict is the animals’ fight for fairness. Ironically, their efforts are tragically undermined by the rise of a new tyranny. The hopeful revolution spirals into a harsh reminder of how easily power corrupts and how those in charge often rewrite the rules to suit themselves.
Key Characters
The characters in Animal Farm are more than just animals—they’re stand-ins for the people and forces that drive revolutions and governments.
Old Major (Pig)
An ideologist who wants to have a world without Tyranny
Snowball
A clever and visionary pig, he represents intellectual leadership. He dreams of progress and genuinely believes in the revolution’s ideals.
Napoleon
The story’s villain is a power-hungry pig manipulating the revolution for his own gain. He’s not just cunning but ruthless, willing to betray anyone to stay in control.
Squealer
Napoleon’s smooth-talking sidekick is the regime’s mouthpiece. With his gift for twisting words, he convinces the other animals that lies are truth and oppression is freedom. Familiar? Squealer creates a lot of propaganda—it can be dangerous.
Boxer
the strong and loyal workhorse symbolizes the hardworking but naive populace. His motto, “I will work harder,” shows his dedication but also his tragic blind trust in authority.
Clover
A caring and moral horse who senses something is wrong but can’t quite put it into words,
Benjamin
The pessimistic donkey who sees through the lies but chooses to stay silent.
The rivalry between Snowball and Napoleon ignites the story’s drama, while Boxer’s exploitation showcases the tragedy of the betrayed working class.
What to Look For While Reading
George Orwell packed Animal Farm with layers of meaning, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Themes
First, examine the themes. The corruption of ideals runs through the entire story. What starts as a hopeful revolution becomes a chilling example of how power corrupts. Orwell also explores the role of propaganda. Notice how Squealer’s speeches manipulate the truth, showing how words can control entire societies.
Symbolisms
Symbolism adds another layer. The farm represents a miniature society, with each animal reflecting different social groups or attitudes. The windmill, a major point of contention, stands for false promises—grand projects used to distract and exploit. And then there’s the famous line: “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.” It perfectly captures the hypocrisy of authoritarian rule.
There are many Symbolisms, but I will talk about some of them here.
Beasts of England
This catchy tune isn’t just a song—it’s a rallying cry for revolution! It symbolizes the animals’ dreams of freedom and a brighter future. The anthem unites them and gives them hope as they overthrow their oppressors. But as the pigs tighten their grip on power, the song is banned. Why? Because it’s a reminder of the ideals they’ve abandoned. By silencing it, the pigs erase the revolution’s memory and solidify their betrayal.
The 7 Commandments
The commandments are the cornerstone of the animals’ new society, promising equality and justice for all. But, as the pigs’ power grows, these rules slowly change to suit their selfish needs. By the end, they’re reduced to a single, jaw-droppingly hypocritical statement: “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.” It’s a stark reminder of how easily those in charge can twist principles.
The Windmill
Ah, the windmill—the pigs’ shining promise of progress. It’s supposed to symbolize innovation and a better life, but instead, it becomes a tool for manipulation. The pigs use it to distract the animals and justify their endless labor. Each time it’s destroyed, the animals rebuild, pouring in their sweat and hopes, only to be exploited even further. Talk about running in circles!
Literacy Levels of the Animals
Who knew literacy could be so powerful? In the story, the pigs’ ability to read and write gives them control over the other animals, who can’t recognize when they’re being tricked. This knowledge gap creates a divide that keeps the pigs in power and the others in the dark. It’s a sharp reminder that education is the key to resisting oppression and spotting the truth.
Narrative Style
Finally, consider Orwell’s narrative style. The simple, fable-like tone makes the story easy to follow, even for younger readers. But don’t be fooled by the simplicity or fable style! Behind the straightforward prose lies a biting critique of human nature and political systems. Using animals as characters adds humor and distance, making the harsh truths more palatable without losing their impact.
Focusing on these elements will reveal how Animal Farm is both a sharp political allegory and a timeless cautionary tale.
Takeaway Lessons
This book might look like a children’s story at first glance, but don’t be fooled—it’s deeply unsettling. The tale of Animal Farm is downright scary when you think about it. Napoleon, the so-called leader, is completely unethical and gets away with it. That’s the part that upset me the most.
If you look at history, you’ll notice similar cases happening in different parts of the world. Orwell didn’t write Animal Farm just to entertain us with talking animals—it’s a warning. Even when it starts with good intentions, power has a way of twisting itself into something ugly. Blind loyalty can lead to betrayal, as we see with Boxer working himself to death for a system that never cared for him or the other animals trusting Napoleon when they really shouldn’t have.
Why does this happen? The animals didn’t have the education or information to understand what was really going on. Revolutions may start with noble goals, but things can quickly spiral out of control If leaders lack ethics and aren’t kept in check. That’s Orwell’s key message: leaders need to be held accountable, and we must question authority instead of blindly following.
Discussions
Think about why systems like checks and balances exist in the United States—they’re meant to stop power from running wild. Orwell also reminds us how fragile ideals are. Even the noblest ones can be corrupted when no one’s watching.
As you reflect on the story, ask yourself: Do the cycles of oppression in the book remind you of anything in modern society? And how can we recognize and resist propaganda today? Animal Farm isn’t just about the past—it’s a mirror to the present and a guide for the future.
Final Recommendation
If you’re curious about the history of political philosophy or just enjoy a story packed with sharp insights, Animal Farm is for you. It’s short enough to read in a weekend but deep enough to leave you thinking for weeks.
This isn’t just a tale about animals on a farm—it’s a powerful critique of human nature and society. Orwell invites you to see beyond the surface and examine the structures that shape our world. Dive in, and let this timeless classic challenge your views and spark meaningful conversations.