Animal Farm: A Timeless Allegory of Power and Corruption
Introduction
George Orwell’s Animal Farm is a political allegory that has remained relevant since its publication in 1945. Though presented as a simple fable about farm animals, the novella explores authoritarianism, propaganda, and the cyclical nature of power. Orwell, a vocal critic of totalitarian regimes, uses the story of Manor Farm’s rebellion to reflect the Russian Revolution and the rise of the Soviet Union.
In this Animal Farm book review, we’ll explore its enduring significance, sharp political commentary, and why it remains a classic of modern literature.
All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others
Themes & Symbolism
At its core, Animal Farm is a study of how power corrupts. The animals, led by the idealistic Old Major, seek to overthrow their human oppressors and establish an equal society. However, as the pigs gain control, their rule mirrors the very tyranny they opposed.
🐷 Napoleon, a ruthless leader modeled after Stalin, manipulates language and fear to consolidate power, demonstrating Orwell’s warning about unchecked authority.
📢 Propaganda plays a crucial role in Napoleon’s reign. Through Squealer’s manipulative speeches, Orwell shows how truth can be distorted to serve those in power. The constant revision of the Seven Commandments and the infamous declaration:
“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”
demonstrate how language can be weaponized to control the masses.
🐴 Boxer, the hardworking horse, symbolizes the betrayal of the working class. His unwavering loyalty and blind faith in leadership lead to his tragic downfall, highlighting Orwell’s critique of how governments exploit hardworking individuals.
Meanwhile, Benjamin the donkey represents cynical intellectuals who recognize oppression but refuse to act.
Historical Parallels
Orwell’s Animal Farm serves as a direct allegory for the Russian Revolution and the rise of the Soviet Union.
| old major | Karl Marx / Vladimir Lenin |
| snowball | Leon Trotsky |
| napoleon | Joseph Stalin |
The internal conflicts, purges, and propaganda reflect historical events like Stalin’s Great Purge and the rewriting of Soviet history. However, Animal Farm transcends its historical context, serving as a universal warning against authoritarian rule—regardless of ideology
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Literary Style & Impact.
Orwell’s writing is deceptively simple yet deeply impactful. The use of anthropomorphized animals makes the story accessible while delivering a powerful critique of political systems.
✔️ The novella’s brevity and clarity ensure its message remains potent and easy to grasp.
✔️ Despite being a work of fiction, Animal Farm is widely studied in political science and literature for its insights into human nature and governance.
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Personal Thoughts & Rating
Final Verdict: 5/5
Overall, Animal Farm is one of the best classics I have ever read. Despite its dark themes, it is a light read with powerful insights.
This book resonates across different political landscapes, highlighting how societies fall into cycles of oppression.
If you’re looking for an entry point into classic literature, I highly recommend this novella. In a sense, Animal Farm was SIMPLY LOVELY.
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