An Analysis of The Passage "Clover"

Clover is a character in the renowned novel "Animal Farm" written by George Orwell. In the passage "Clover," we gain valuable insights into her character and her role in the larger narrative. This analysis will explore the passage and discuss what it tells us most about Clover. Through examining her actions, thoughts, and relationships, we will uncover her loyalty, intelligence, and compassion, which ultimately contribute to her significance in the novel.

Loyalty: Clover's Unwavering Devotion

The passage underscores Clover's unwavering loyalty to the ideals of Animalism and her dedication to the other animals on the farm. Orwell writes, "Clover was a stout motherly mare approaching middle life, who had never quite got her figure back after her fourth foal" (Orwell, 1945, p. 37). This physical description of Clover as a "motherly mare" suggests her nurturing nature and highlights her role as a caretaker for the other animals. Throughout the novel, Clover consistently supports the principles of Animalism, reinforcing her loyalty to the cause.

Furthermore, the passage reveals Clover's commitment to equality and fairness. When the pigs begin to change the commandments, Clover becomes suspicious, noticing that "something was wrong" (Orwell, 1945, p. 37). This shows her critical thinking skills and her ability to question the actions of those in power. Despite her doubts, Clover remains loyal to the principles of Animalism, highlighting her unwavering devotion to the cause and her fellow animals.

Intelligence: Clover's Keen Understanding

Another significant aspect of Clover's character is her intelligence, which is highlighted throughout the passage. Orwell writes, "She had a trick of making a kind of 'whinnying' sound, different from her usual neighing or singing, when she wished to make it clear that she was speaking as a mother and not as a comrade" (Orwell, 1945, p. 37). This demonstrates Clover's ability to adapt her communication style to convey different messages effectively.

Clover's intelligence is further evident when she learns to read the Seven Commandments, displaying her capacity to acquire knowledge and comprehend complex ideas. Orwell writes, "When they had once got it by heart, the sheep developed a great liking for this maxim and often repeated it during the day in the midst of their work" (Orwell, 1945, p. 37). This passage suggests that Clover not only possesses the intelligence to learn but also the ability to influence and educate others.

Compassion: Clover's Caring Nature

Clover's caring and compassionate nature is prominently featured in the passage. Orwell describes her as a "stout motherly mare" (Orwell, 1945, p. 37), emphasizing her nurturing qualities. Throughout the novel, Clover demonstrates her compassion by taking care of the weaker animals, such as the ducklings. She also shows concern for Boxer, the loyal cart-horse, when he becomes injured.

Additionally, the passage reveals Clover's empathy towards her fellow animals. When the pigs begin to walk on their hind legs, Clover is deeply disturbed. Orwell writes, "In the middle of the summer the animals were alarmed to hear that three hens had come forward and confessed that, inspired by Snowball, they had entered into a plot to murder Napoleon. They were executed immediately" (Orwell, 1945, p. 37). This scene highlights Clover's distress and her inability to accept the brutal actions of the pigs, further emphasizing her compassionate nature.

Conclusion

The passage "Clover" provides valuable insights into Clover's character, revealing her loyalty, intelligence, and compassion. Her unwavering devotion to the principles of Animalism, her ability to adapt her communication style, and her caring nature illuminate her significance in the novel. Clover serves as a symbol of resistance against oppression, questioning the actions of those in power and advocating for equality. Through her character, Orwell conveys the importance of loyalty, critical thinking, and empathy in the face of injustice. Overall, Clover's character contributes to the broader themes and messages of "Animal Farm," making her a crucial and memorable figure in the novel.

Bibliography

Orwell, G. (1945). Animal Farm. Secker and Warburg.