Page Count: 92
First Publication: Secker & Warburg, UK
Summary
Animal Farm is a political satirical novella brilliantly written by George Orwell (pen name for Eric Arthur Blair). The brilliance in Orwell’s writing is evidenced by the fact that in 2008, The Times named George Orwell the second-greatest British writer since 1945. Animal Farm tells the story of a group of anthropomorphic farm animals who rebel against their human farmer, hoping to build a society based on equality, freedom, and happiness. However, their success is short-lived as they soon find themselves in an even worse situation under an authoritarian ruler who constantly manipulates the very principles they fought for, ensuring he holds absolute power.
The story begins with the “Manor Farm”, owned by a farmer named Jones, who fails to manage the farm properly. The animals rebel against this farmer, take over the farm, and change the name of the farm to “Animal Farm”. The farm is fully operated by the animals for the animals, under the leadership of the pigs named Napoleon and Snowball. Napoleon is portrayed as a corrupted leader and Snowball as a leader who lives for idealistic values and principles that benefit the whole of society. At one point, Napoleon uses the fierce dogs he secretly raised to drive Snowball off the farm. Napoleon seizes absolute control of the farm, and from that moment, the animals’ suffering begins. As time passes, the living conditions of the other animals worsen, while Napoleon and his inner circle indulge in every luxury imaginable. Napoleon implements changes so subtly and persuasively that the animals remain convinced they are better off than under human rule. It is only after a series of grim events that they come to realize the rebellion—founded on the belief that humans are evil and all animals are equal—has ultimately led to their leader forming an alliance with humans, becoming one of them, and enforcing the notion that while all animals are equal, some are more equal than others.
Positive Side of the Book
Although Animal Farm is said to be a political satire against Joseph Stalin’s rule in the Soviet Union after the Russian Revolution of 1917, amazingly, the allegory depicts the situation of many countries even today. It would not be false to state that Animal Farm exactly portrays the Communist movement in Nepal. Having closely observed the Communist movement in Nepal, there is no doubt that the political events here have unfolded almost exactly as depicted in the book.
One of Orwell’s greatest strengths is his ability to craft deeply realistic characters, each embodying different aspects of political ideologies and human nature. There are different characters that we can easily relate to. The idea of the rebellion is initiated by the Old Major, an old pig, who firmly believes in idealistic principles of freedom, equality, justice, etc. After his passing away, another pig named Snowball, a leader, is characterised as a firm follower of the principles introduced by the Old Major. Napoleon, another pig, represents a leader who is a total authoritarian and who is ready to overthrow anyone who does not agree with him and who keeps twisting the principles to stay in power, forming allies even with the enemies. Squealer, a young porker, serves Napoleon in all his deeds. Squealer is so smart that he can convince all the animals that Napoleon is always right. Then there are various other characters, like sheep, who are blind followers of their leader. Then, there is a loyal follower, a horse named Boxer, who works extremely hard with total faith that the authority is creating a better world for all. There is an old donkey named Benjamin, who does not believe there will be change in their lives with the revolution in the political system. He believes life always goes bad, irrespective of any political system. All these and other characters whose opinion regarding the political system differs make this novel so realistic.
The book is so captivating that the readers would not want to put it down for being anxious on how the story will unfold in the following pages.
Negative Side of the Book
This book critiques totalitarianism by illustrating its negative consequences, but it does not explicitly propose solutions. While its message about power and corruption is compelling, some critics argue that Orwell oversimplifies political systems.
Like any political work, the book has faced mixed reactions. Not everyone agrees with its stance against totalitarian rule, and some readers may find its pessimistic tone discouraging.
The book has been banned in Cuba and North Korea due to its satirical critique of totalitarianism and communism. Booksellers in Iran have been warned against selling Orwell’s works, including Animal Farm, for the same reasons. In 1991, Kenya banned a play based on Animal Farm because it was seen as a direct attack on the Kenyan government and could incite rebellion. Animal Farm is still censored in Vietnam.
The United Arab Emirates banned the book in 2002 due to its depiction of talking pigs, which was considered contrary to Islamic values.
Animal Farm has faced bans or restrictions in several countries, primarily due to its political content and, in some cases, religious considerations. These bans highlight the book's ongoing political relevance and the fear it instills in oppressive regimes.
Conclusion
Animal Farm is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding how political structures shape society. It serves as a powerful eye-opener, especially for those who blindly follow political leaders or ideologies. Despite its brevity, the book carries profound depth, offering multiple layers of interpretation that engage thoughtful readers in a long and meaningful reflection.
All readers are equal, but some readers are more equal than others. However, many readers will find Animal Farm to be an unforgettable masterpiece. It is hard to deny the book’s lasting impact and relevance in today’s world.
Words from the Book"All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others."
"The creatures outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig, and from pig to man again; but already it was impossible to say which was which."
Rajendra Maharjan
Contact: teacher.rajen@gmail.com
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