Animal Farm - Chapter 9: Key Points

Boxer's Condition

• Boxer sustained a split hoof which was slow to heal.
• He continued to work hard despite his injury, driven by the ambition to see the windmill completed before his retirement.
• Clover and Benjamin worried about his health and urged him to work less.

Retirement and Pensions

• The initial rules of Animal Farm set the retirement age for different animals, with provisions for pensions.
• Discussions about retirement became more frequent as Boxer's 12th birthday approached, but no animal had yet retired.

Food and Living Conditions

• The winter was harsh, with food shortages affecting all except pigs and dogs.
• Squealer justified the unequal rations, claiming it was aligned with Animalism principles.
• Despite hardships, the animals believed conditions were better than under Jones' rule.

Increase in Pig Population

• Four sows gave birth to 31 piglets, all potentially Napoleon's offspring.
• Plans for a schoolroom for young pigs were announced; pigs were taught separately.
• Pigs received privileges, such as wearing green ribbons.

Economic Struggles and Adjustments

• The farm was financially strained, requiring sales of produce and further ration reductions.
• Barley was reserved exclusively for pigs, and they were given beer rations.

Social Structure and Celebrations

• Spontaneous Demonstrations were held to celebrate Animal Farm's achievements.
• These events included processions, speeches, and poems, reinforcing the animals' sense of freedom and purpose.

Political Changes

• Animal Farm was declared a Republic; Napoleon was elected President.
• New revelations about Snowball's betrayal were publicized.

Moses the Raven

• Moses returned, speaking of Sugarcandy Mountain, a utopian paradise.
• Despite dismissing his tales as lies, pigs allowed Moses to stay on the farm with provisions.

Boxer's Collapse and Departure

• Boxer's health declined, culminating in a collapse while working.
• Squealer assured animals that Boxer would be treated in Willingdon.
• Benjamin discovered that Boxer was being sent to the knacker's, but it was too late.

Aftermath of Boxer's Death

• Squealer claimed Boxer's last words praised Napoleon and Animal Farm.
• He dismissed concerns about Boxer's removal as misunderstandings due to the van markings.
• Napoleon held a speech in honor of Boxer and later the pigs held a banquet.

Conclusion

• The chapter underscores themes of exploitation, manipulation, and the disparity between the ruling pigs and other animals.
• Boxer's story is a poignant reflection on the betrayal of loyal workers and the corruption of ideals.