Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely: an Analysis of "Animal Farm"

Introduction

George Orwell's Animal Farm is a profound allegory that encapsulates the perils of absolute power and its tendency to corrupt those who wield it. Published in 1945, the novella uses a farm and its animal inhabitants to symbolize the events leading up to the Russian Revolution of 1917 and subsequent rise of Stalinism in the Soviet Union. Through the tale of the oppressed animals overthrowing their human farmer only to find themselves under the tyranny of their fellow creatures, Orwell explores the corrupting influence of power. This essay examines how the narrative of Animal Farm illustrates the axiom "absolute power corrupts absolutely" by detailing the transformation of the pigs from revolutionary leaders to oppressive rulers.

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In the beginning, the animals on Mr. Jones's farm are subjected to severe exploitation and neglect. Inspired by Old Major's vision of an egalitarian society where all animals are free and equal, they stage a rebellion and successfully overthrow their human oppressor. Initially, the newly established Animal Farm operates on the principles of Animalism, where the welfare of the community is prioritized over individual gain. The Seven Commandments, particularly the dictum "All animals are equal," encapsulate the idealistic aspirations of the revolution.

However, as the pigs, particularly Napoleon and Snowball, assume leadership roles, the dynamics of power begin to shift. The rivalry between Napoleon and Snowball represents the initial struggle for control. When Napoleon usurps power by expelling Snowball, the seeds of corruption are sown. Napoleon's ascent to power marks the beginning of a regime characterized by deceit, manipulation, and absolute authority.

Napoleon consolidates his power through various means, including the revision of the Seven Commandments to suit his interests. The initial commandment "All animals are equal" is gradually altered to "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others." This perversion of the founding principles reflects the extent of the corruption that has taken root. The pigs, now indistinguishable from the human oppressors they once overthrew, indulge in the same vices—drinking alcohol, sleeping in beds, and engaging in trade with humans.

The use of propaganda and fear further entrenches Napoleon's absolute power. Squealer, Napoleon's propagandist, manipulates language and information to justify the pigs' actions and maintain control over the other animals. The threat of Jones's return is continually invoked to stifle dissent and maintain a climate of fear. The sheep, with their mindless repetition of slogans like "Four legs good, two legs bad," epitomize the manipulation and control of the masses.

Moreover, the gradual erosion of individual liberties and the rise of a totalitarian regime underscore the central theme of the novella. The animals, once united by a common cause, find themselves divided and oppressed under the new leadership. The betrayal of Boxer, the hardworking horse, symbolizes the ultimate corruption of Napoleon's regime. Despite Boxer's unwavering loyalty and tireless labor, he is callously sold to the knacker when he is no longer useful. This act of betrayal highlights the moral decay that accompanies the concentration of power.

Orwell's portrayal of the pigs' transformation from revolutionary leaders to tyrannical rulers serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of absolute power. The initial ideals of equality and justice are subverted by the very individuals who sought to uphold them. The narrative demonstrates that without checks and balances, power inevitably leads to corruption and the oppression of the very individuals it was meant to liberate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, George Orwell's Animal Farm provides a compelling illustration of the adage "absolute power corrupts absolutely." Through the allegorical tale of a farm revolution gone awry, Orwell explores the corrupting influence of power and its capacity to transform idealistic leaders into oppressive tyrants. The novella serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of vigilance, accountability, and the preservation of democratic principles in the face of power. By examining the trajectory of the pigs' rise to power and subsequent corruption, Animal Farm underscores the inherent dangers of unchecked authority and the necessity of safeguarding against the concentration of power in the hands of a few.