Introduction
In George Orwell’s classic novel, Animal Farm, the animals face the bitter cold of winter as they struggle to rebuild the windmill. Amidst their hardships, they must conceal their shortage of food from nearby human farmers, fearing failure. However, the true test of their loyalty and trust comes when Napoleon, the power-hungry pig, makes a shocking decision to sell the hens’ eggs. This act ignites a chain of events that expose the extent of Napoleon’s deception and manipulation, leaving the animals in a state of confusion and despair.
The Eggs and the Rebellion’s Principles
Napoleon’s decision to sell four hundred eggs a week shocks and angers the animals. They recall that one of Old Major’s original complaints about humans was their cruelty in selling eggs. The hens rebel against this decision, leading Napoleon to respond by cutting their rations entirely. The consequences are devastating – nine hens die before the others give in.
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Comment: This moment highlights the struggle between the ideals of the Rebellion and the reality of maintaining a functioning society. It prompts reflection on the sacrifices and compromises necessary for survival in a harsh environment.
Snowball’s Betrayal and Squealer’s Manipulation
Napoleon further manipulates the animals by spreading rumors that Snowball, a once-heroic pig, has been secretly sabotaging their efforts. Napoleon claims he can detect Snowball’s presence everywhere and blames him for every misfortune. Squealer, the persuasive propagandist, announces that Snowball has betrayed them by allying with Mr. Jones, the former human owner. The animals are left in stupefied astonishment, trying to reconcile their memories of Snowball’s bravery with the accusations against him.
Comment: This manipulation represents the rewriting of history that totalitarian regimes employ. It also highlights the role of propaganda in distorting the truth and shaping perceptions to suit the leader’s agenda.
The Bloody Purge and Boxer’s Bewilderment
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Napoleon, with his nine formidable dogs as enforcers, stages an inquisition and purge. Certain animals are forced to confess their involvement with Snowball, and their punishment is a brutal death at the dogs’ jaws. The shocking bloodshed leaves the animals shaken and confused. Even Boxer, the strong and loyal horse, expresses disbelief at the tragic turn of events. But he remains committed to working harder, convinced that the fault lies within the animals themselves.
Comment: This scene reflects the brutal reality of totalitarian regimes, where dissent is swiftly crushed. It also emphasizes the blind loyalty of Boxer, who fails to see the oppressive nature of the regime and continues to toil under false pretenses.
The Replacement of “Beasts of England”
To solidify his control and erode the spirit of rebellion, Napoleon prohibits the singing of “Beasts of England.” This song, once an anthem of hope, is replaced with a new composition glorifying Animal Farm and expressing patriotism. However, it fails to inspire the animals as their original song did.
Comment: The replacement of the song symbolizes the erasure of the animals’ hope and their transformation into passive subjects under Napoleon’s rule. It also represents the loss of their collective identity and the suppression of their revolutionary spirit.
Analysis
Orwell uses Chapter VII to shed light on the tactics employed by oppressive governments to maintain control and suppress dissent. The pigs’ manipulation of information, rewriting of history, and use of propaganda mirror the methods used by Stalin in Soviet Russia. Stalin’s regime relied on purges and show trials to eliminate dissidents and create a climate of fear and obedience.
Comment: The historical allusions in Animal Farm serve as cautionary tales, reminding us of the dangers of unchecked power and manipulation. They also encourage us to question authority and remain vigilant against the erosion of democratic principles.
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Moreover, Napoleon’s transformation of Snowball into a despicable enemy mirrors Stalin’s abuse of Trotsky, another prominent figure in the Russian Revolution. Both leaders depicted their adversaries as threats to the welfare of the people and used their expulsion or execution to consolidate power.
Comment: This comparison highlights the manipulation of narratives to vilify dissenters and maintain a facade of righteousness. It demonstrates how leaders can exploit fear and insecurity to justify their oppressive actions.
Lastly, Orwell exposes the pigs’ rewriting of reality and their control over information to maintain their dictatorship. Manipulating statistics and silencing any form of dissent, they create a false vision of progress and prosperity. Fear becomes the tool that ensures compliance and blinds the animals to their own exploitation.
Comment: Orwell’s portrayal of the pigs’ manipulation of reality serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of a society that willingly accepts comforting lies over challenging the status quo. It is a call for critical thinking and vigilance in the face of authoritarianism.
In conclusion, Animal Farm serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the dangers of unchecked power and manipulation. Napoleon’s deception and manipulation of the animals expose the vulnerable underbelly of a society that fails to question authority and protect democratic principles. Through this allegory, Orwell reminds us of the importance of remaining vigilant against oppression and the erosion of truth.
Comment: Orwell’s powerful novel continues to resonate today, reminding us of the timeless relevance of its themes. It urges us to question authority, guard against manipulation, and fight for a society founded on justice and equality.
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Category: WHY
