Understanding Animal Farm

Trisha Saraf
USCBB21207
 Introduction

•"Animal Farm" by George Orwell is an allegorical

novella that critiques the corruption of revolutionary
ideals and the nature of power through the tale of a group
of farm animals who overthrow their human farmer in
hopes of creating an equitable society. As the pigs assume
leadership, the initial dreams of equality give way to a
new tyranny, mirroring the events of the Russian
Revolution and subsequent rise of the Soviet Union. The
story explores themes of power, betrayal, and the cyclical
nature of oppression, offering a poignant commentary on
political systems and leadership.
 Key Terms
- Animalism: The guiding principle of the animal's society, advocating equality and
freedom.
- The Seven Commandments: Rules established to guide the animals, encapsulating
Animalism's ideals.
- Squealer's Propaganda: The manipulation of information by Squealer to maintain pig
control.
- Boxer's Mottos: Symbolize the exploitation of workers' loyalty and hard work.
- The Windmill: Represents technological progress and manipulation by the leadership.
"Four legs good, two legs bad": A slogan that morphs into "Four legs good, two legs
better" as pigs adopt human traits.
Difference in perception of the industry
Trade Union Views:
● Trade unions view the industry as an often exploitative environment where workers have
to fight for fair wages, humane working hours, and respect.
● They work for reform where workers' contributions are valued and their voices heard in a
just environment.

Animal Farm Comparison:

● In "Animal Farm," the animals see Manor Farm as a place under Mr. Jones where they
face exploitation and neglect.
● Just as the pigs use clever tactics to rise to power, they exploit the other animals' labor for
their own benefit, illustrating how leadership can manipulate perceptions of fairness and
justice.
Difference in individual position/situation
Trade Union Views:
● Unions stress that it's important for workers to recognize their individual rights, foster
solidarity, and have their merit recognized.

Animal Farm Comparison:

● In "Animal Farm," the animals have varying statuses; the pigs amass privilege, while the
others, like Boxer the workhorse, toil regardless of merit.
● They have no means to represent their individual concerns, leading to a one-sided power
dynamic.
Difference in opinion in the way the industry needs to be managed

Trade Union Views:

● Unions believe in fair and open decision-making in the industry, where workers have
a say and aren't considered just as tools to generate profit, implying the need for co-
equal management.

Animal Farm Comparison:

● In "Animal Farm," Snowball initially advocates for democratic decision-making and
innovation for all, which is usurped by Napoleon who takes over the farm to manage
it autocratically.
Difference in perception about the value of the individual contribution

Trade Union Views:

● Union views emphasize workers' contributions in terms of skills and hard
work should be acknowledged fairly for their worth.

Animal Farm Comparison:

● In "Animal Farm," all animals contribute to the farm's success, especially
Boxer. However, their work is exploited, and the pigs enjoy the profits, with
Boxer's efforts unrecognized when he can no longer work.
Difference in expectation with regard to security
Trade Union Views:
● Unions focus on ensuring sure workers have job security and a safe working
environment, deriving a good reason for working in such conditions.

Animal Farm Comparison:

● In "Animal Farm," the animals hope for security and a better life after the
revolution, but under Napoleon's dictatorship, there's neither the safety of
position nor the insurance of their well-being, undermining worker security
with false promises.
Individual interest encroaches at the cost of others' interests

Trade Union Views:

● Unions think that it is when individual pursuits or interests, like those of
managers or owners, usurp that of workers, injustice prevails. Workers
should band together to resist this kind of unfairness.

Animal Farm Comparison:

● In "Animal Farm," the pigs' personal interests lead to the subjugation and
suffering of the other animals. This is most blatantly illustrated by the pigs
becoming more human-like to protect their interests, at the expense of
others, embodying the antithesis of worker solidarity.
 Conclusion

•Animal Farm is not just a story about

animals rebelling against their human
master. It is a deep and complex allegory
about the dangers of power and how
even the noblest intentions can be
corrupted. It reminds us of the need for
constant vigilance and integrity in the
fight for justice and equality.