The Revolution and Its Aftermath
The narrative begins with Mr. Jones's mistreatment of animals on his farm, setting the stage for revolution. Old Major, representing both Lenin and Karl Marx, shares his vision of animal liberation through a powerful dream, dying three nights later. This catalyzes the revolution, led by Napoleon, Snowball, and Squealer.
Definition: The term "satirical allegory" refers to the use of animal characters to criticize political systems and human behavior.
Highlight: The Seven Commandments initially establish the principles of equality and freedom, but gradually become corrupted.
Example: The pigs' transformation mirrors human behavior as they begin wearing clothes, sleeping in beds, drinking alcohol, and walking upright.
Quote: "All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others" - This modified commandment reveals the complete corruption of the original revolutionary ideals.
Vocabulary:
- Allegory: A story with hidden political or moral meaning
- Revolution: A fundamental change in power structure
- Totalitarianism: A system of government requiring complete subservience to the state
The story's parallel to the la fattoria degli animali e la rivoluzione russa becomes evident through character representations: Napoleon as Stalin, Snowball as Trotsky, and the easily manipulated masses represented by dogs, sheep, and rabbits. The gradual corruption of power is symbolized by the pigs' increasing resemblance to humans, demonstrating how revolutionary ideals can be betrayed by those who gain control.
