Literary Analysis Essay of George Orwell’s “Animal Farm”
Animal Farm is regarded as one of George Orwell’s most notable works. Published in 1945, this dystopian novel is similarly considered as one of the best English novels, having won awards such as the Hugo Award in 1996. It follows the story of the animals in Manor Farm who have always been miserable under care of Mr. Jones, the farmer who runs the place. But perhaps what is most interesting about this novel is that it reflects the events of the Russian Revolution. In fact, the characters of the book are allegorical representations of major figures that relates to the revolution of 1917.
Napoleon is one of the first characters mentioned in the book. He is represented as a “large and fierce-looking Berkshire boar” who has a “reputation of getting his own way” (Orwell 34). He is presented as a corrupt and opportunistic character that never made a single contribution to the revolution. More than this, the character is a clear representation of totalitarian leaders that rose into power during the twentieth century. This explains why his name was taken from the infamous Napoleon Bonaparte who is known for betraying democratic principles. But while his namesake was from the French general, Napoleon’s character is in fact a direct representation of the Soviet dictator, Joseph Stalin. Initially, Napoleon was presented as a good leader. But over the course of the novel, he is eventually overcome by power and greed which caused him to become corrupt. His hunger for power is best exemplified when he decided to slaughter the animals who were plotting against him. This accordingly, is similarly to the life and leadership of Stalin who dropped the original principle of socialism which equality and instead lived a life of luxury while others suffer in poverty. Stalin was also noted for systematically killing countless people which he suspected were supporters of his rival Trotsky.
Another central character in the book is Snowball. According to the author, this character is very similar to that of Napoleon especially in the earlier parts of the narrative. Much like his counterpart, Snowball wanted to lead a new political and economic system that is based on equality. As the novel progresses, it becomes clear that one of them has to step down as both were always arguing. Some of their differences in opinion include whether or not to construct a windmill. It is in this regard that the character of Snowball mirrors Leo Dawidowitsch Trotsky which is the arch-rival of Stalin. The parallelism of Trotsky and Snowball are undeniably uncanny as both share similar experiences. Like Trotsky for example, Snowball has also been exiled. And similar to how Napoleon planned to murder him, Snowball’s experience shows the threats in Trotsky’s life. He was eventually assassinated in Mexico where he was found with a axe on his head.
Another major character in Animal Farm who is central to the story is Old Major. He is described as a “pure-bred” pig with a kind and wise demeanor. In the book, he proposes a solution to the animals who are desperate to leave the care of farmer Jones. Literary scholars point out that the manner in which Old Major is molded is reminiscence of Karl Marx. Much like Marx, Old Major’s philosophy is ideal as it is about a society built upon the principles of equality.
Based on the points provided, it can be concluded that George Orwell’s Animal Farm represents the characters and figures related to the Russian Revolution. Some of the major characters include Napoleon who represents Joseph Stalin, Snowball who symbolizes Trotsky, and Snowball who represents the idealism of the philosopher Karl Marx.
References
Orwell, George. The Animal Farm. NY: Green Light, 2012