Animal Farm Summary
Setting
- Manor Farm in England
- Run by Mr. Jones, who is harsh and often drunk
Key Characters
- Old Major: Elderly boar who inspires the rebellion
- Snowball and Napoleon: Pigs who become leaders
- Boxer and Clover: Carthorses loyal to the cause
- Mollie: Vain horse, uninterested in the work
- Benjamin: Cynical donkey
- Squealer: Propaganda-spreading pig
- Mr. Pilkington and Mr. Frederick: Neighboring farmers
The Beginning of Rebellion
- Old Major's Speech: Animals suffer due to humans; teaches "Beasts of England"
- Animalism: Developed by Snowball and Napoleon
The Rebellion
- Mr. Jones neglects to feed animals -> Animals revolt
- Rename farm to Animal Farm
- Seven Commandments: Foundation of Animalism
Early Success
- Animals manage the farm efficiently
- Boxer’s motto: "I will work harder!"
- Snowball's committees and literacy efforts
Power Struggles
- Snowball vs. Napoleon: Disagreement over the windmill
- Napoleon uses dogs to expel Snowball
- Napoleon's Rule: Ends animals' voting rights; Squealer spreads propaganda
Construction and Hardship
- Windmill construction begins
- Pigs trade with humans and move into farmhouses
Conflicts and Betrayals
- Windmill destroyed, Napoleon blames Snowball
- Hens' revolt over egg trade
- Mass executions enforced by Napoleon
Changes in Commandments
- Animals confused by changing rules (e.g., beds, alcohol)
- Commandment Alterations: Animals should not drink to excess
Final Developments
- Boxer sent to glue factory under false pretenses
- Pigs become more like humans: walking on two legs, carrying whips
- New Maxim: "All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others"
Conclusion
- Animals can no longer differentiate pigs from humans
- Rebellion's original goals forgotten; cycle of oppression continues
These notes encapsulate the major plot points and thematic elements of George Orwell's "Animal Farm," highlighting the progression from revolutionary fervor to a corrupt leadership that mirrors the oppressive regime it overthrew.