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Themes and Events in Animal Farm

Apr 17, 2025

Animal Farm - Key Points

Introduction

  • Welcome to Mana Farm, now known as Animal Farm.
  • The animals are unhappy with their human owner, Mr. Jones.
  • Old Major, a prize boar, shares a vision of a future without human tyranny.

The Rebellion

  • Old Major's teachings evolve into "Animalism."
  • The animals overthrow Mr. Jones after a food shortage.
  • The farm is renamed Animal Farm.
  • Seven Commandments of Animalism are inscribed by Snowball.

Early Successes & Challenges

  • Pigs, being smarter, supervise the harvest.
  • Boxer the carthorse becomes a symbol of hard work.
  • "Beasts of England" anthem spreads rebellion ideas.

Power Struggles

  • Napoleon and Snowball disagree over various matters.
  • Napoleon uses dogs to expel Snowball and takes over leadership.
  • Sunday meetings are abolished; pigs make decisions.

Building the Windmill

  • Despite initial opposition, Napoleon claims the windmill as his idea.
  • Boxer contributes most to its construction.

Dealing with Humans

  • Napoleon trades with humans via a lawyer, Mr. Whimper.
  • Pigs move into the farmhouse, bending commandments to their favor.

Internal Conflicts

  • A storm destroys the windmill; Napoleon blames Snowball.
  • Food shortages lead to increased production demands.
  • Rebellious hens are punished harshly.

Propaganda and Lies

  • Squealer manipulates information to justify Napoleon’s actions.
  • Pigs revise commandments to suit their needs.

Later Events

  • Napoleon takes a business deal with Mr. Frederick, resulting in betrayal.
  • The Battle of the Windmill leads to more destruction.
  • Napoleon indulges in alcohol, further bending the rules.

Decline of Ideals

  • Animals face harsh conditions despite propaganda about improved life.
  • Boxer, the hardworking horse, is sold to the slaughterhouse.

The Final Transformation

  • Pigs begin acting like humans (walking on two legs, using whips).
  • The farm reverts to its original name, Manor Farm.
  • Animals witness pigs and humans becoming indistinguishable.

Conclusion

  • The story is a satirical allegory on power and corruption.
  • Ends with a reflection on history and revolution.

This summary encapsulates key developments and themes from "Animal Farm," highlighting the evolution from idealism to tyranny and the cyclical nature of power.