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Summary of Animal Farm Chapters

May 14, 2025

Animal Farm by George Orwell

Chapter I

  • Introduction of Mr. Jones: Drunk and careless, leaving the popholes open.
  • Old Major's Dream: A wise, benevolent pig calling for a meeting.
  • Animal Assembly:
    • Dogs: Bluebell, Jessie, Pincher
    • Pigs: Settled in the front
    • Horses: Boxer and Clover
    • Others: Muriel (goat), Benjamin (donkey), ducklings
  • Old Major's Speech:
    • Addresses the misery and slavery of animal life caused by Man.
    • Advocates for rebellion against Man—the sole enemy.
    • Introduces the song "Beasts of England."

Chapter II

  • Old Major's Death: Sparks the beginning of preparations for rebellion.
  • Animalism: Ideology developed by pigs (Snowball, Napoleon, Squealer).
  • Early Resistance: Animals' loyalty to Mr. Jones and doubts about Rebellion.
  • Rebellion: Occurs unexpectedly due to Mr. Jones' neglect.
  • Commandments of Animalism: Established and painted on the barn wall.

Chapter III

  • Harvest Success: Animals' hard work leads to abundant harvest.
  • Education: Pigs take leadership roles; animals learning to read and write.
  • Slogans: "Four legs good, two legs bad" to simplify the Commandments.
  • Napoleon's Seclusion: Raises puppies separately for control.

Chapter IV

  • Spread of Rebellion: Across neighboring farms via pigeons.
  • Cowshed Battle:
    • Humans attempt to recapture the farm.
    • Animals led by Snowball successfully defend.
    • Hero medals awarded.

Chapter V

  • Mollie's Departure: Due to distrust and desire for human interaction.
  • Windmill Controversy: Snowball vs. Napoleon's differing visions.
  • Snowball's Expulsion: Driven off by Napoleon's dogs.
  • New Regime: End of democratic meetings, rise of Napoleon’s control.

Chapter VI

  • Construction of Windmill: Begins despite challenges and sacrifices.
  • Trade with Humans: Initiated due to shortages, breaking initial resolutions.
  • Betrayal and Lies: Squealer’s manipulative justifications.

Chapter VII

  • Winter Hardships: Starvation and manipulative propaganda to outsiders.
  • Rebellions Quashed: Hens' resistance over eggs leads to harsh punishment.
  • Snowball as Scapegoat: Blamed for all misfortunes.
  • Mass Executions: For alleged treachery, causing fear among animals.

Chapter VIII

  • Further Corruption: Pigs alter the Commandments to suit their actions.
  • Attack by Frederick: Windmill destroyed, humans temporarily driven off.
  • Manipulation of Events: Squealer redefines the destruction as a victory.

Chapter IX

  • Boxer's Tragic End: Overworked, sold to slaughter under false pretenses.
  • Propaganda and Lies: Squealer spreads false narratives about Boxer's fate.
  • Social Hierarchy: Pigs live in luxury while others suffer.

Chapter X

  • Years Pass: Recollection of the rebellion fades.
  • Pigs Become Like Humans: Walking on two legs, engaging with humans.
  • Corruption and Betrayal: Original ideals completely abandoned.
  • Conclusion: Animals realize little difference between pigs and humans.