thesis statement of animal farm

Animal Farm - List of Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

Animal Farm, penned by George Orwell, is a compelling allegorical novella that explores the themes of power, corruption, and propaganda through the lens of a group of farm animals who revolt against their human farmer. Essays could delve into the political allegory embodied in the narrative, examining how Orwell critiques totalitarianism and the betrayal of revolutionary ideals. The discourse might extend to the examination of character dynamics, symbolism, and the satirical elements employed by Orwell to convey his message. Discussions could also focus on the historical context of “Animal Farm,” particularly its reflection on the Russian Revolution and the subsequent rise of Stalinism. Moreover, essays might explore the enduring relevance of “Animal Farm,” examining how its messages resonate in various contemporary political and social contexts, and how it continues to be a critical literary tool for fostering discussions on governance, authority, and the human propensity for power and manipulation. A vast selection of complimentary essay illustrations pertaining to Animal Farm you can find at Papersowl. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Animal Farm Book Review

“Animal Farm” is a classic novel by the acclaimed author George Orwell reflecting a negative opinion towards Stalinism or Russias form of communism. Through his work he expressed controversial views and came to be well known for such. George Orwell published “Animal Farm” in 1945 in the midst of world war two, despite his beliefs the book would not be received well due to the war the book managed to take off and being one of his more popular books […]

Absolute Power in George Orwell’s Animal Farm

George Orwell's Animal Farm suggests, "Absolute power corrupts absolutely. It simply means the more power and control one has over the other, but then more corruption is possible for that person. There are many examples in the book of power corrupting those in charge. From the essay on Animal Farm, you can learn that in the article the animals in power are the two pigs.. Napoleon is the pig with the most power and Snowball is the second with less […]

How are Napoleon and Snowballs Leadership Styles Different?

Napoleon and Snowballs leadership styles are very different and they had completely different ways they wanted to run animal farm. Snowball is a more happy, and he is more creative and more fluent than Napoleon. Snowball is also active and works hard on a lot of different things at the same time for the farm. His nonstop work ethic, cleverness way he is, and public speaking skills make him a very good persosaive leader. Snowball forms a lot of complicated […]

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Examples of Manipulation in Animal Farm

George Orwell’s Animal Farm the creator of a very great book. From the Rebellion onward,animal farm i based on when the russian revolution happen However, while the attack dogs keep the other animals in line, Napoleon’s wanted to keep everyone in line decisions. To check this threat to the pigs’ power, Napoleon relies on rousing slogans, songs, and phrases like when he said 4 legs good 2 legs bad. On Animal Farm, it quickly becomes clear that language. So it […]

Freedom and Equality in the Animal Farm

George Orwell's Animal Farm is written about how actions can give a bad idea of freedom and equality. The animals on the farm were inspired by what Old Major had told them before he died. The animals dreamed about being free but after the rebellion, they ended up being completely obedient to the new leader Napoleon. Napoleon the boar and Boxer the horse were most significant in the loss of freedom and equality in the novel. Napoleon was a big […]

Cloning in Farm Animals

Although cloning may not seem to be a huge practice, it has been done several times in different breeds of animals. Everyone has heard of Dolly the sheep, right? She is the first, and most famous, clone in the world. Cloning is a complex process that lets one exactly copy the genetic, or inherited, traits of an animal(FDA, 2017). The cloning of livestock began in 1996, with Dolly, and has become more prevalent in the years since. There are many […]

Propaganda in Animal Farm

Animal farm helps us determine and reflect all the different lessons that are different parts of the book. The lessons picked out were politics,corruption, absolute power,propaganda. The 3 lessons i am going to focus on in this essay is when power is given, then that power is only used to help oneself only and not to the good of the public, in the book absolute power creates corruption and corruption creates propaganda, these are the main Animal Farm essay topics […]

George Orwell and Animal Farm: a Critical Analysis

  To better understand the novel, it is important for the reader to understand Orwell's background. Eric Arthur Blair was born in 1903 to a lower class family. He went to a private school on a scholarship and experienced social isolation for his socioeconomic status and because of his experience he subscribed to the philosophy of socialism . As an adult, Blair enlisted in an imperialist police force in Burma, distraught by what he saw he soon left and became […]

Factory Farming And Animal Welfare

When one thinks of farms, they probably envision cute animals happily grazing in the grass. However, America's farm system has changed. What once comprised never-ending fields and white picket fences now consists of huge industrial buildings filled with many tiny cages. These factory farms are not only inconsiderate to animals, but they also affect our human lives. The benefits of factory farming are not worth the consequences. Thesis: Consumers should no longer support factory farmed meat companies due to the […]

Animal Farm and Ignorance

George Orwell's Animal Farm is a classic cautionary tale that exposes Soviet Russia for being a totalitarian nightmare through the use of satire. In Animal Farm, the animals of Manor Farm rise against their oppressive master Mr. Jones only to have another even more oppressive master, Napoleon the pig. Throughout the book, the animals become miserable and lose more and more rights as the pigs become corrupt. The animals on Animal Farm allow this to happen as they are constantly […]

Russian Orthodox Church and Animal Farm

Russian Orthodox Church and Moses both followed the brutal leadership Czar and Mr. Jones??‰ before the rebellion. Moses was the pet raven of Mr. Jones. This means that Moses must rely on Mr. Jones to survive and Mr. Jones needs Moses to entertain him. On the other hand, under the rule of Peter I, the Czar controlled the Russian Orthodox Church, making the Russian Empire become a country with the unity of politics and religion. The Russian Orthodox Church needs […]

Industrial Farm Animal Welfare in the United States

Industrial farm animal welfare is horrendous, only two federal laws protect these animals which proves this true. Firstly, the law regarding trucking animals states that every 28 hours they are unloaded from the truck for rest, water and food. Trucks aren't required to be cleaned during this rest period. Meaning the livestock has to stand in feces during travel. Secondly, livestock be quickly rendered insensible to pain before being slaughtered. These laws aren't actively enforced leading to increased animal cruelty. […]

Animal Farm Power Corrupts

“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others” (Orwell, 134). In the novel Animal Farm, by George Orwell, Napoleon and Snowball had a strong friendship and relationship. They during this time were creating the theory of Animalism. They came up with this from Old Major’s speech, and later they complied these ideas into seven commandments. Once Old Major dies Napoleon and Snowball become rivalries and have a rebellion against each other. In Animal Farm argumentative essay […]

An Utopian Society in the Novel Animal Farm

Having power is something wanted by all, but it's sometimes it's the wrong people who obtain it. All around the world, signs are proving this to be true, even in literature. Classic novels which tend to address universal concerns such as too much power can change the way people view life. A classic novel such as Animal Farm which was written by George Orwell can portray how having too much power will eventually lead to the abuse of that power […]

Animal Farm Cause & Effect

When two events are said to be independent of each other this means that the probability that one event occurs in no way affects the probability of the other event occurring. The novel written by George Orwell Animal Farm is quite the opposite as the novel is packed with many underlying messages concerning itself how one event affects the probability of a spiraling effect. The novel throughout plants many underlying messages but the ones that are felt to be most […]

Idyllic Society in the Novel Animal Farm

In the novel Animal Farm written by George Orwell is about how the animals attempt to create their own idyllic society which based on equality among the animals. The pigs create Animalism that all the animals have to follow and live by without going against it. First, the author describes the pigs as the "cleverest of the animal and they can easily take over the farm. Secondly, the pigs rely on rules they made together to keep the animals in […]

In Vitro Meat And Animal Welfare

"In Vitro Meat": What is it? I had never even heard of "In Vitro Meat" before this class started, therefore, I had to conduct an in-depth investigation to figure out exactly what it is and why it is being developed. According to The Journal of Food and Science Technology, In Vitro meat is, "The idea is to grow meat in a culture in the lab and manipulate its composition selectively" (Sharma). This means that this so-called "meat" is an artificial […]

Philosophy of the Animal Farm

The George Orwell Animal Farm starts on an English farm. The old man collects animals from the manor house and continues to share his dream of a world without humans and animals under control. He warns them not to focus on all animals as equals. When he dies with three young pigs - snowstands, Napoleon and Sclera - he formulates his basic principles in the philosophy of "Animalism". From the Old Major, seven commandments are written: Everyone walking on two […]

Orwell’s Story Animal Farm

In this story there are many underlying lessons to be discovered. We've learned about morals all throughout our lives by reading stories such as Tortoise and the Hare and Hansel and Gretel. Morals are something that the author wants us to take away from their story. These can be shown in, through or because of character's actions. The three morals that stood out to me in the essay on Animal Farm the most are how power corrupts, causes an unequal […]

Animal Farm: Final Word Response

According to Animal Farm by George Orwell, Napoleon represents Joseph Stalin in a sociopolitical system. Stalin was the leader of the Soviet Union and rose to power as general secretary and became a soviet dictator. Napoleon was the leader of Animal Farm after the rebellion. He was very cruel and lacked empathy, He took nine puppies from their parents to raise them himself and used them for protection. The dogs were like a military force to intimidate the other animals […]

Animal Farm the Revolution that doesn’t Make a Difference

Upon reading the Animal Farm, your first impression is that it is a children's tale story. But as you keep reading it you will begin to parallel characters and systems in real life. However, each of you can have your own experience and can make your own parallels between characters and systems in your real life. For a full understanding of this allegory you must go back to the Russian Revolution at 1917. The novel began with Mr. Jones who […]

An Analysis Totalitarianism and Symbolism in “Animal Farm”

Books tell stories. Novels tell long stories of fictitious characters. Non-fiction recounts real persons in actual circumstances and situations. George Orwell's novel, "Animal Farm," depicts fictional characters journeying through circumstances and situations mirroring Russian history, namely the Bolshevik Revolution. This revolution brought communism from the mind of a disenchanted member of the working class into the realm of politics on the world stage. Specific characters in this novel actually stand for people who really lived. The situations they faced are […]

A Literary Analysis of the Novel “Animal Farm” and its Film Adaptation

To fully appreciate the comparison between the book "Animal Farm", written by George Orwell, and the animated film adaptation of the book, directed by Joy Bachelor and John Halas, I must understand what the book and the film offer to its audience. Films depend on action, dialogue, and obvious visualization to tell the story in images, as opposed to literary narrative terms. The timeline of a novel's storyline can be much longer than in a film. For example, in the […]

Comparing and Contrasting the Novels “Animal Farm” and “The Hunger Games”

George Orwell's "Animal Farm" and Suzanne Collins's "The Hunger Games" share a crucial similarity: both are stories of rebellion against oppressive leaders. "Animal Farm" narrates the tale of animals revolting against their cruel leader, Mr. Jones, and its repercussions. On the other hand, "The Hunger Games" portrays two fighters initiating a rebellion against the administrators of the Hunger Games and their wealthy, oppressive leaders. Despite their differences, both rebellions have similarities, exemplifying that oppressive leadership inevitably causes resistance. The initial […]

A Satire of Human Nature in Animal Farm

"Animal Farm," the novel by George Orwell, is a satire of human nature. Through the use of animals, it ridicules certain human traits and characteristics. The novel illuminates man's selfishness and greed, inherent in our nature, and shows how many "innocent bystanders" are swept under and destroyed by these unrelenting traits. In the story, these naive bystanders are the animals of Manor Farm who succumb first to their human masters and then to the pigs. Orwell's transformation of the pigs […]

An Analysis of the Roles of the Old Major and Benjamin in “Animal Farm”

Old Major was a stout-looking boar of twelve years of age. He was wise and benevolent. He was highly regarded by the other animals on the farm. It was Old Major who, one night, dreamt of a world where all animals were equal and Man was no more. He shared his dream and visions with the animals. If Man were removed from the scene, the cause of hunger and overwork would be abolished. He delivered the message of rebellion to […]

Animal Farm Final Word Response

In any sociopolitical system there is a leader, and Napoleon, a character from George Orwell's, "Animal Farm" is depicted as the dictator of the farm. He is deceiving and uses his power for the benefit of the pigs, not the other animals. Napoleon is a factor in the inequality of the farm and how it has strayed away from the original future that Old Major had for the animals. Specifically to the Russian Revolution, Napoleon represents Joseph Stalin due to […]

Animal Farm: an Analysis of Napolean and Squealer’s Authority

Introduction: Thesis Statement for Animal Farm George Orwell was an English novelist, essayist, and journalist who incorporated political issues into his work. One of his well-known novels, Animal Farm, is an allegory based on the Russian Revolution that uses the political issue of corruption of power. Corruption of power is when a leader misuses his or her power to benefit themselves. In the story, the animals of Animal Farm rebel against their master, Mr. Jones, and create a system of […]

Rhetoric in Animal Farm by George Orwell

What if the roles of life were reversed? Imagine for a second that animals had the authority of the world instead of humans. This exaggeration was demonstrated on a smaller scale in the novella Animal Farm, written by George Orwell. The rhetorical devices in Animal Farm help the reader understand how a common situation would look if flipped upside down. Working until exhaustion, the animals lived on the Manor Farm without any thoughts of a new life. That is until […]

Moral of Animal Farm: the Central Message of Corruption and Power

Introduction One thing that hits my mind after reading the novel is: “Does the Old Major’s dream of a utopia come true?” Upon my consideration, I consider “Animal Farm” as an allegorical and sardonic novel of Soviet totalitarianism and a struggle for a class-free society. The manipulation and centralization of power generate political corruption; thus, to me, the novel clarifies the relative simplicity of obtaining power in relation to correctly using that gained power. As the novel grows, the characters […]

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How To Write an Essay About Animal Farm

Understanding 'animal farm' by george orwell.

Before writing an essay about 'Animal Farm,' it's essential to thoroughly understand the novel. 'Animal Farm' is an allegorical novella by George Orwell, first published in England in 1945. It is a satirical tale about a group of farm animals who rebel against their human farmer, hoping to create a society where animals can be equal, free, and happy. However, the revolution is betrayed, and the farm ends up in a state as bad as it was before, under the dictatorship of a pig named Napoleon. Familiarize yourself with the plot, characters, and Orwell's writing style. Understanding the historical and political context of the Russian Revolution and its aftermath, which Orwell allegorizes, is crucial to interpreting the novel.

Developing a Thesis Statement

Your essay should be centered around a clear, concise thesis statement. This statement should present a specific perspective or argument about 'Animal Farm.' You might discuss Orwell's critique of totalitarianism, the corruption of ideals, or the use of propaganda. Whatever your focus, your thesis should guide the direction of your essay and provide a structured approach to the narrative.

Gathering Textual Evidence

To support your thesis, gather evidence from the text. This involves closely reading the novel to find relevant quotes and examples that align with your thesis. For instance, if you're discussing the theme of power and corruption, identify instances in the text where Orwell shows the pigs abusing their power. Use these examples to build your argument and give depth to your analysis.

Analyzing Orwell's Techniques and Themes

Analyze how Orwell uses literary techniques to convey his themes. Discuss his use of allegory, characterization, and symbolism. For example, explore how the characters in 'Animal Farm' represent historical figures or how the farm's transformation mirrors the betrayal of a revolutionary vision. This analysis should show a deep understanding of the novel and how Orwell communicates his political commentary.

Concluding Your Essay

Conclude your essay by summarizing the main points of your analysis and restating your thesis. Your conclusion should tie together your insights into 'Animal Farm,' emphasizing the significance of your findings. Reflect on the broader implications of the novel, such as its relevance in today’s political climate or its contribution to literature.

Reviewing and Refining Your Essay

After writing your essay, take the time to review and refine it. Ensure that your arguments are clearly articulated and supported by evidence from the book. Check for grammatical accuracy and ensure that your essay flows logically. Consider seeking feedback from peers or instructors to further improve your essay. A well-written essay on 'Animal Farm' will demonstrate not only your understanding of the novel but also your ability to engage critically with literary texts.

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A Summary and Analysis of George Orwell’s Animal Farm

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)

Animal Farm is, after Nineteen Eighty-Four , George Orwell’s most famous book. Published in 1945, the novella (at under 100 pages, it’s too short to be called a full-blown ‘novel’) tells the story of how a group of animals on a farm overthrow the farmer who puts them to work, and set up an equal society where all animals work and share the fruits of their labours.

However, as time goes on, it becomes clear that the society the animals have constructed is not equal at all. It’s well-known that the novella is an allegory for Communist Russia under Josef Stalin, who was leader of the Soviet Union when Orwell wrote the book. Before we dig deeper into the context and meaning of Animal Farm with some words of analysis, it might be worth refreshing our memories with a brief summary of the novella’s plot.

Animal Farm: plot summary

The novella opens with an old pig, named Major, addressing his fellow animals on Manor Farm. Major criticises Mr Jones, the farmer who owns Manor Farm, because he controls the animals, takes their produce (the hens’ eggs, the cows’ milk), but gives them little in return. Major tells the other animals that man, who walks on two feet unlike the animals who walk on four, is their enemy.

They sing a rousing song in favour of animals, ‘Beasts of England’. Old Major dies a few days later, but the other animals have been inspired by his message.

Two pigs in particular, Snowball and Napoleon, rouse the other animals to take action against Mr Jones and seize the farm for themselves. They draw up seven commandments which all animals should abide by: among other things, these commandments forbid an animal to kill another animal, and include the mantra ‘four legs good, two legs bad’, because animals (who walk on four legs) are their friends while their two-legged human overlords are evil. (We have analysed this famous slogan here .)

The animals lead a rebellion against Mr Jones, whom they drive from the farm. They rename Manor Farm ‘Animal Farm’, and set about running things themselves, along the lines laid out in their seven commandments, where every animal is equal. But before long, it becomes clear that the pigs – especially Napoleon and Snowball – consider themselves special, requiring special treatment, as the leaders of the animals.

Nevertheless, when Mr Jones and some of the other farmers lead a raid to try to reclaim the farm, the animals work together to defend the farm and see off the men. A young farmhand is knocked unconscious, and initially feared dead.

Things begin to fall apart: Napoleon’s windmill, which he has instructed the animals to build, is vandalised and he accuses Snowball of sabotaging it. Snowball is banished from the farm. During winter, many of the animals are on the brink of starvation.

Napoleon engineers it so that when Mr Whymper, a man from a neighbouring farm with whom the pigs have started to trade (so the animals can acquire the materials they need to build the windmill), visits the farm, he overhears the animals giving a positive account of life on Animal Farm.

Without consulting the hens first, Napoleon organises a deal with Mr Whymper which involves giving him many of the hens’ eggs. They rebel against him, but he starves them into submission, although not before nine hens have died. Napoleon then announces that Snowball has been visiting the farm at night and destroying things.

Napoleon also claims that Snowball has been in league with Mr Jones all the time, and that even at the Battle of the Cowshed (as the animals are now referring to the farmers’ unsuccessful raid on the farm) Snowball was trying to sabotage the fight so that Jones won.

The animals are sceptical about this, because they all saw Snowball bravely fighting alongside them. Napoleon declares he has discovered ‘secret documents’ which prove Snowball was in league with their enemy.

Life on Animal Farm becomes harder for the animals, and Boxer, while labouring hard to complete the windmill, falls and injures his lung. The pigs arrange for him to be taken away and treated, but when the van arrives and takes him away, they realise too late that the van belongs to a man who slaughters horses, and that Napoleon has arranged for Boxer to be taken away to the knacker’s yard and killed.

Squealer lies to the animals, though, and when he announces Boxer’s death two days later, he pretends that the van had been bought by a veterinary surgeon who hadn’t yet painted over the old sign on the side of the van. The pigs take to wearing green ribbons and order in another crate of whisky for them to drink; they don’t share this with the other animals.

A few years pass, and some of the animals die, Napoleon and Squealer get fatter, and none of the animals is allowed to retire, as previously promised. The farm gets bigger and richer, but the luxuries the animals had been promised never materialised: they are told that the real pleasure is derived from hard work and frugal living.

Then, one day, the animals see Squealer up on his hind legs, walking on two legs like a human instead of on four like an animal.

The other pigs follow; and Clover and Benjamin discover that the seven commandments written on the barn wall have been rubbed off, to be replace by one single commandment: ‘All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.’ The pigs start installing radio and a telephone in the farmhouse, and subscribe to newspapers.

Finally, the pigs invite humans into the farm to drink with them, and announce a new partnership between the pigs and humans. Napoleon announces to his human guests that the name of the farm is reverting from Animal Farm to the original name, Manor Farm.

The other animals from the farm, observing this through the window, can no longer tell which are the pigs and which are the men, because Napoleon and the other pigs are behaving so much like men now.

Things have gone full circle: the pigs are no different from Mr Jones (indeed, are worse).

Animal Farm: analysis

First, a very brief history lesson, by way of context for Animal Farm . In 1917, the Tsar of Russia, Nicholas II, was overthrown by Communist revolutionaries.

These revolutionaries replaced the aristocratic rule which had been a feature of Russian society for centuries with a new political system: Communism, whereby everyone was equal. Everyone works, but everyone benefits equally from the results of that work. Josef Stalin became leader of Communist Russia, or the Soviet Union, in the early 1920s.

However, it soon became apparent that Stalin’s Communist regime wasn’t working: huge swathes of the population were working hard, but didn’t have enough food to survive. They were starving to death.

But Stalin and his politicians, who themselves were well-off, did nothing to combat this problem, and indeed actively contributed to it. But they told the people that things were much better since the Russian Revolution and the overthrow of the Tsar, than things had been before, under Nicholas II. The parallels with Orwell’s Animal Farm are crystal-clear.

Animal Farm is an allegory for the Russian Revolution and the formation of a Communist regime in Russia (as the Soviet Union). We offer a fuller definition of allegory in a separate post, but the key thing is that, although it was subtitled A Fairy Story , Orwell’s novella is far from being a straightforward tale for children. It’s also political allegory, and even satire.

The cleverness of Orwell’s approach is that he manages to infuse his story with this political meaning while also telling an engaging tale about greed, corruption, and ‘society’ in a more general sense.

One of the commonest techniques used in both Stalinist Russia and in Animal Farm is what’s known as ‘gaslighting’ (meaning to manipulate someone by psychological means so they begin to doubt their own sanity; the term is derived from the film adaptation of Gaslight , a play by Patrick Hamilton).

For instance, when Napoleon and the other pigs take to eating their meals and sleeping in the beds in the house at Animal Farm, Clover is convinced this goes against one of the seven commandments the animals drew up at the beginning of their revolution.

But one of the pigs has altered the commandment (‘No animal shall sleep in a bed’), adding the words ‘ with sheets ’ to the end of it. Napoleon and the other pigs have rewritten history, but they then convince Clover that she is the one who is mistaken, and that she’s misremembered what the wording of the commandment was.

Another example of this technique – which is a prominent feature of many totalitarian regimes, namely keep the masses ignorant as they’re easier to manipulate that way – is when Napoleon claims that Snowball has been in league with Mr Jones all along. When the animals question this, based on all of the evidence to the contrary, Napoleon and Squealer declare they have ‘secret documents’ which prove it.

But the other animals can’t read them, so they have to take his word for it. Squealer’s lie about the van that comes to take Boxer away (he claims it’s going to the vet, but it’s clear that Boxer is really being taken away to be slaughtered) is another such example.

Communist propaganda

Much as Stalin did in Communist Russia, Napoleon actively rewrites history , and manages to convince the animals that certain things never happened or that they are mistaken about something. This is a feature that has become more and more prominent in political society, even in non-totalitarian ones: witness our modern era of ‘fake news’ and media spin where it becomes difficult to ascertain what is true any more.

The pigs also convince the other animals that they deserve to eat the apples themselves because they work so hard to keep things running, and that they will have an extra hour in bed in the mornings. In other words, they begin to become the very thing they sought to overthrow: they become like man.

They also undo the mantra that ‘all animals are equal’, since the pigs clearly think they’re not like the other animals and deserve special treatment. Whenever the other animals question them, one question always succeeds in putting an end to further questioning: do they want to see Jones back running the farm? As the obvious answer is ‘no’, the pigs continue to get away with doing what they want.

Squealer is Napoleon’s propagandist, ensuring that the decisions Napoleon makes are ‘spun’ so that the other animals will accept them and carry on working hard.

And we can draw a pretty clear line between many of the major characters in Animal Farm and key figures of the Russian Revolution and Stalinist Russia. Napoleon, the leader of the animals, is Joseph Stalin; Old Major , whose speech rouses the animals to revolution, partly represents Vladimir Lenin, who spearheaded the Russian Revolution of 1917 (although he is also a representative of Karl Marx , whose ideas inspired the Revolution); Snowball, who falls out with Napoleon and is banished from the farm, represents Leon Trotsky, who was involved in the Revolution but later went to live in exile in Mexico.

Squealer, meanwhile, is based on Molotov (after whom the Molotov cocktail was named); Molotov was Stalin’s protégé, much as Squealer is encouraged by Napoleon to serve as Napoleon’s right-hand (or right-hoof?) man (pig).

Publication

Animal Farm very nearly didn’t make it into print at all. First, not long after Orwell completed the first draft in February 1944, his flat on Mortimer Crescent in London was bombed in June, and he feared the typescript had been destroyed. Orwell later found it in the rubble.

Then, Orwell had difficulty finding a publisher. T. S. Eliot, at Faber and Faber, rejected it because he feared that it was the wrong sort of political message for the time.

The novella was eventually published the following year, in 1945, and its relevance – as political satire, as animal fable, and as one of Orwell’s two great works of fiction – shows no signs of abating.

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Animal Farm

Introduction to animal farm ‎, summary of animal farm, major themes in animal farm, major characters in animal farm, writing style of animal farm, analysis of literary devices in animal farm  .

Cows and horses, geese and turkeys, All must toil for freedom’s sake. Beasts of England, beasts of Ireland, Beasts of every land and clime, Hearken well and spread my tidings Of the golden future time. (Chapter-1)

No animal shall wear clothes. No animal shall sleep in a bed. No animal shall drink alcohol. No animal shall kill any other animal. (Chapter-II)

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15 RELEVANT ANIMAL FARM ESSAY IDEAS

Reading for pleasure allows enjoying the process instead of forcing yourself to make it through. Most of the people who start reading George Orwell's "Animal Farm" share that they are immersed in the novel completely. Even those who tell that books aren't their cup of tea agree that this story is a masterpiece.

Still, choosing the proper "Animal Farm" essay ideas to discuss in an academic paper isn't an easy task. Writing a good essay on this topic can be a challenge. That's because the book itself is rather philosophical - there's a lot of issues to analyze. The narrator covers many aspects related to politics, history, sociology, and psychology, and any area will be a relevant ground for your writing. You may ask how it is possible to highlight those issues if the book is about animals. But, while working on your homework assignment on "Animal Farm," you will discover the meaning of different techniques author uses to deliver his ideas.

As in the case with many other writings, an essay on Orwell's novel aims to make a student analyze the concepts, images, and messages covered in the book. And, if you are going to write a good essay, the first and major step remains the same - you have to choose and formulate a relevant topic. But how to find a perfect one? In this article, we will go through some issues that may be used by students of Literature specialties. We hope that our ideas will inspire you and help to come up with a judgment of a topic you need.

Recall the Background

First, let us recall the basics of the book's plot so that everyone will get the point without reading the entire piece.

It all starts when an aged boar who represents the farm's major calls a meeting. It suggests that the pets are nothing but garner Jones's slaves that have no rights of freedom, and the man gains the advantage of using them for his own purposes. The boar calls for a revolution to fight for rights, and in three days, it kicks the bucket. The pets get rid of Jones's easily and occupy his lands - the Animal Farm is founded.

There is another character, a pig named Snowball, which is presented in a book as an idealist. For it, being free means being polite and educated. That is why Snowball tries to teach the animals things that people can do - reading and thinking logically. Snowball believes that everyone should respect each other and be equal.

And, Boxer - a horse that is the strongest animal on the farm. With Snowball, these two get along well at first. But that's until the smart Snowball offers to build a windmill and provide all animals with electricity. The opposition traits it as an endeavor and scare off Snowball by bringing out the dogs. Napoleon, who is in the head of the farm, decides that now, only pigs have a right to make decisions and implement laws. And that is when it's getting worse. During an attempt to build the windmill using Boxer and other animals as slaves or free labor, Napoleon crashes down. As the windmill falls over, he blames Snowball for everything taking place.

So, how does the plot remind you of a real-life situation? What social issues do you think are hidden in the book "Animal Farm" and how can you use them for a good essay? Take your time - we have prepared an insightful guide on how to implement those ideas from the novel in your writing.

15 Best "Animal Farm" Paper Topics

To begin with, collect the necessary information from the external sources and the book itself, and develop an outline. The best reference is the original Orwell's story, for sure. Have the book right beside you to consult it, if needed. While reading, make notes to pick the best quotes, and support your statements well.

The next stage is to make an outline - it will help you to move on while writing a paper. Depending on the theme you choose, your points will be named differently, but the overall image of your outline can be the following:

• A quote from the story
• The significance of the selected question
• Background information
• Thesis statement
• Claim 1 (A farm represents the country)
• Claim 2 (Animals underestimate the role of farm in their lives)
• Claim 3 (A farm as a real-life image from your experience)
• Paraphrased thesis statement
• Summary of the main points (claims)
• A rhetorical question (how far it could go if...)

At this stage, make sure that your paragraphs are organized logically, and the essay content will be coherent for the audience. The theme you select has a great impact on how your overall structure will look. And now, it is time to list the possible topics to write on.

The story is full of extraordinary characters that you can discuss. Pick and analyze one of them and try not to retell the plot.

• Snowball: A Vivacious Pig
• Squealer as an Example of a Brilliant Talker
• Boxer: An Enormous Beast
• The brutality of the nine dogs
• Benjamin and the stereotypes about the older generation

Those can be a good ground for a character analysis essay as well.

"Animal Farm" covers various social and political issues, so you have plenty of ideas to choose from.

• Leadership & corruption
• Total control of the labor class
• Lies and deception
• American Dream
• Social injustice

These are the central themes covered by George Orwell, and investigating one of them through the novel's plot will be a relevant choice.

There are many hidden messages in the story written by Orwell. If you can see those references, you understand what historical events are described in the book, and if you're not a fan of symbols - here are some topics for you:

• Character symbols: what do Old Major and Snowball symbolize?
• Image of the Soviet Union in The Animal Farm
• Parallels of historical and political events with the book plot
• The Battle of the Cowshed
• Post-communistic spirit and the role of the windmill

Those were some relevant essay topics for your Animal Farm assignment. Feel free to use them and express your ideas on the book in the best manner.

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George Orwell and Animal Farm: A Critical Analysis Essay (Critical Writing)

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

George Orwell is one of the most celebrated English writers in the 20 th century (George 1). Orwell’s literature is committed to telling the blatant truth about the violation of people’s freedom and the injustices against the common person (Dedria and Hall 479). Such phrases from his works such as “some animals are more equal than others” have become so popular especially in political dialogues and has shaped peoples opinions regarding the kind of society we live in (Kerala 36).

George Orwell was born as Eric Arthur Blair in India in 1903, where his British father worked as a civil servant. He had gone to school like any other normal child and graduated at Eaton. He worked in the Burma police force and later unsuccessfully tired his hand in a few business ventures but failed. He left for Spain where signed to fight in the Civil War.

His experience at the civil war de-motivated his views abut communalism so much that he decided to live a life of voluntary poverty (Dedria and Hall 479) . This was a deliberate effort to “experience want and the suffering of the oppressed.” He wanted to feel how poor people fell to help in shaping his own theories on socialism.

At this time, he had changed his name to P.S. Burton. His first novel Down and out in Paris was published as a response to his life in voluntary poverty. This was soon followed by Burmese Days and several other essays that questioned the capitalist state. His best novel so far is The Road to Wigan Pier which was published in 1937. It highlighted the pathetic life of the poor.

By this time, he had started gaining prominence as a writer and his works were starting to draw attention. He continued his writing with such other publications as Keep Aspidistra Flying and Coming up for Air followed in 1936 and 1939 respectively. His novel The Animal Farm is his most popular. It is a satirical piece that portrays a society that fully embraces totalitarian rules, much to the chagrin of those who want “individual freedom” (Kerala 36).

All of George Orwell’s novels seem to defend one main theme: socialism. Socialism is a means of production whereby everything is owned communally or by the government. Every one has equal opportunities to everything. The kind of socialism that George Orwell’s socialism advocates for has real life significance as it portrays “revolutionary idealism experienced in Russia and other countries which was betrayed by the revolutionaries themselves, who continue to pat lip service to revolutionary ideas” (Pierce para 6).

His novel then Animal Farm brilliantly employs satire in highlighting shameless betrayal by leaders who promised change (Dedria and Sharon 479). Orwell continues to portray authoritarianism as an enemy to individual freedoms.

There were concerted efforts to bring in a revolution that would save the people but always the new leaders upon tasting power, would betray this revolution. The new leaders would start to dictate what the same people whom they were fighting to save would do, or not do. Such betrayal was the end of socialism in the 20 th century. In this light, this paper will analyze one of his prized novels The Animal Farm.

The story begins in Mr. Jones’ farmhouse one night. Old major, a fatherly and respected pig, gathers the animals and informs them that they had endured deplorable conditions for a long period under the leadership of human beings and therefore a rebellion was necessary. Unfortunately, Old Major succumbs to old age. This leaves the other pigs to lead the fights for animal rights (Darell Para 1).

Two pigs, Napoleon and Snowball lead a successful revolution and after Mr. Jones and his family is driven out, Manor Farm is renamed The Animal Farm (para 2). Other farm owners try to attack the Animal Farm but Snowball lead a successful defense in the battle of the Cowshed and gains much worship amongst the animals (para 4). This is the beginning of his downfall. False rumors are spread by Squealer about him and when the conflict heightens he chased off the farm by Napoleons’ guard dogs (para 6).

Squealer is adopted as Napoleons spokes animal, and proposes the construction of a windmill, an idea that Napoleon takes credit for. Unfortunately the windmill is destroyed in a storm but Napoleon blames Snowball and sentences him to death, together with his sympathizers (para 6). Napoleon and the other pigs begin engaging in anti animalism behavior, such as doing business with men and drinking whiskey. To add to this, the food rations to other animals are reduced significantly (para 6).

To concur with his message that new and old leadership is alike; pigs begin to walk on two feet just like humans. They also start claiming, “All animals are equal but some animals are more equal than others.” The novel culminates in the farm being renamed The Animal Farm while napoleon and other pigs initiate friendship with the human owners of the neighboring farm, and they become just like humans (para 8). It portrays the betrayal of the initial comradeship, and the pessimism of revolutionary movements (Hall and Poupard 348).

George Orwell creates characters carefully to fit in the roles that he needs them to play. Some characters play a major role in this novel. Mr. Jones is a tyrant who represents the old corrupt order. In the real world George Orwell model 20 th century dictators such as Stalin in Mr. Jones (Novelguide para 1).

Snowball and Napoleon are the two pigs who lead a successful revolution. They were ambitious of leadership and courageously fought Mr. Jones out of the farm (NovelGuide para 7-12). The pigs are symbolic of the calculating leaders who benefit from tyrannical leadership. They are opportunists who do not spare any chance afforded to them to exploit their advantaged position in the society (Hall and Poupard, 348).

Squealer is Napoleons manipulative tool in the farm. The dogs are a symbol security only that this security is used negatively. They are also another group of loyalist who are misused by the system to gain advantage over the common person (NovelGuide para 20- 22). However, other characters only play minor roles. Old major represents the good father figure in the society who can be relied upon to give concrete advice. He is respected by other animals who take to his advice without question (NovelGuide para 4).

Boxer and Clover in contrast are dedicated workers who spent all their life serving the society (They are also foolishly gullible in that they believe in all the propaganda spread by Squealer who is a “manipulative and persuasive figure” (Hall and Poupard 348). Just like Squealer, Moses is another manipulative and cunning character in the novel (NovelGuide para 7, 8; 13, 14). Benjamin is an enigmatic character who continues to do his work without care of what is happening (NovelGuide para 17).

The Animal Farm is a classic example of how governments exploit and deny citizens of their basic rights. At the beginning of the novel, the animals are united under the banner of exploitation by Mr. Jones. They manage to fight and install their own leaders in Napoleon.

However, Napoleon turns to be worse that Mr. Jones and “perverts the first commandments he helped make” (Pierce para 7). For example, he reduced food rations for the other animals other than the fellow pigs. Some animals as Boxer worked so hard, believing in their leaders but instead of being rewarded, were exploited for the benefit of the same leaders they served (Grade saver para 15-17). These governments use totalitarian rules, to stay in power and subvert justice.

The pigs lead a revolution against Mr. Jones totalitarian rule, but ends up worse. They not only “end up in Mr. Jones House and position but also in his clothes.” Some critics have used this evidence to explain that The Animal Farm is another successful attempt by the society to kill dissent (Hall & Poupard 349). Propaganda is also used to intimidate those who question the abuse of human rights. Napoleon manipulates information and deceives the animals when he gains full power.

He spreads false accusation against snowball leading to his expulsion from the farm. Squealer, Napoleons spokes animal, is the face of propaganda in this novel. He represents governments’ spokes people who are responsible of spreading rumors that help their government to gain a tighter grip on power (Grade saver para 9-11). As a last result, totalitarians use violence and terror, to silence the rebels. Its effect I that it makes people submit to such government. These who do not are either forcefully exiled or killed.

Such excesses were practiced against Snowball and his sympathizers. Terror can also be propagated through propaganda. Squealer instills fear into anyone who tries to question napoleons unethical conduct, with Mr. Jones return (Grade saver para 12-14). Another major theme highlighted with importance is Education. Unfortunately, it is present in a very negative light. In its essence education is supposed to enlighten people. However in this novel, those in power “manipulate those that are governed” by the use of education.

Take the case of the pigs as an example. They realize the intellectual vulnerability of the other animals and take advantage of it by manipulating the seven commandments to their advantage. Napoleon also uses education negatively when he teaches new pigs his oppressive doctrines (Grade saver para 7, 8). This mis-education cast the other animals deeper into oppression.

In conclusion, George Orwell manages to highlight the fact that the biggest political problem is not capitalism but authoritarian rules. Whether under capitalism of socialism authoritarianism is inevitable this is because of the insatiable nature of human beings. The novel The Animal Farm will continue to be relevant for eons to come it.

It explicitly portrays the “class struggles and exploitation in the human society” (Hall & Poupard, 348). New leaders, like Napoleon, who assume power on the platform of change, abandon the idea as soon as they come to power. Most of them end up being worse of than the ones they replaced. They are just turn coat revolutionaries who take advantage of people’s naïveté to fulfill their selfish personal ambition. Because of the effect his works have achieve he one of the best authors in the 20 th century.

Works Cited

Darrell, Victor. Plot Summary: Animal Farm, by George Orwell. N. d. Web.

Dedria, Bryfonski & Hall, Sharon. Twentieth century literary criticism: George Orwell . Michigan: Book Tower. 1979. Print.

“Grade saver.” Animal Farm Themes . 2010. Web.

Hall, Sharon & Poupard, Dennis. Twentieth Century Literary Criticism. Michigan: Book Tower,1982. Print.

Kerala, Calling. From Eric Blair to George Orwell, Biography. London: Sage, 2003. Print.

“NovelGuide.” Novel Analysis: Animal Farm, Characterization . 2010. Web.

Pearce, Robert . ‘ Orwell, Tolstoy, and ‘Animal Farm’ . The Review of English Studies , 1998. Web.

Storgaard, Claus. Opinion Essays : George Orwell, Socialist, Anarchist or what…? 2004. Web.

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IvyPanda. (2018, August 2). George Orwell and Animal Farm: A Critical Analysis. https://ivypanda.com/essays/george-orwell-and-animal-farm-a-critical-analysis/

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Animal Farm — The use of power and propaganda in animal farm

The Use of Power and Propaganda in Animal Farm

• Categories: Animal Farm George Orwell Propaganda

About this sample

Words: 1721 |

Published: Jun 29, 2018

Words: 1721 | Pages: 4 | 9 min read

Works Cited

• Anderson, M. (2012). Propaganda Techniques. In M. A. Genovese (Ed.), Encyclopedia of the United States in the Twentieth Century (pp. 623-625). New York: Infobase Publishing.
• Arendt, H. (1951). The Origins of Totalitarianism. New York: Harcourt Brace & Co.
• Botsford, K. (2015). Language and Propaganda. In K. Botsford (Ed.), Propaganda and Persuasion (6th ed., pp. 117-146). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications.
• Ellul, J. (1965). Propaganda: The Formation of Men's Attitudes. New York: Vintage Books.
• Orwell, G. (1946). Animal Farm. London: Secker and Warburg.
• Pratkanis, A. R., & Aronson, E. (1992). Age of Propaganda: The Everyday Use and Abuse of Persuasion. New York: W.H. Freeman and Company.
• Stanley, J. (2015). How Propaganda Works. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press.
• Sunstein, C. R. (2017). #Republic: Divided Democracy in the Age of Social Media. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press.
• Tifft, S. E. (2005). Analyzing Propaganda. In S. E. Tifft & P. M. Myers (Eds.), Handbook of Political Communication Research (pp. 263-279). New York: Routledge.
• Welch, D. (2001). Propaganda and the German Cinema, 1933-1945. Oxford: Clarendon Press.

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