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George Orwell's 'Animal Farm' presents a compelling narrative that explores the transformative impact of power on a seemingly utopian society of farm animals. Power, a force capable of both constructive and destructive outcomes, becomes the focal point through which the story unfolds. Lord Acton's adage, "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely," resonates throughout the novel, illustrating how the misuse of authority can lead to dire consequences.
At the outset of the story, Old Major, a highly esteemed figure among the animals, wields his influence to champion the cause of rebellion against human oppression.
While his intentions may initially appear noble, the manner in which he exercises power sets the stage for subsequent corruption. Orwell depicts Old Major as a charismatic leader, noting, "Old Major was so highly regarded on the farm that everyone was quite ready to lose an hour’s sleep in order to hear what he had to say" (Orwell 25).
Old Major's persuasive abilities sow the seeds of rebellion, yet the subtle manipulation of the animals raises questions about the purity of his motives.
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Although advocating for the welfare of the farm, Old Major's use of power lays the groundwork for its later abuse by those who succeed him.
Following Old Major's demise, power transitions to the pigs—Napoleon, Snowball, and Squealer. Initially, their objective is to establish a society founded on equality, as reflected in the Seven Commandments, one of which declares, "All animals are equal." However, the gradual devolution of power into tyranny becomes apparent as the pigs ascend to leadership, exploiting their intellectual advantage.
Orwell illustrates the pigs' intellectual dominance: "The pigs did not actually work but directed and supervised others.
With their superior knowledge, it was natural that they should assume the leadership" (Orwell 45). This intellectual advantage becomes a tool for the pigs to manipulate and control the other animals, gradually eroding the equality they once proclaimed.
The pigs' manipulation extends to the distortion of the Seven Commandments, demonstrating the corrupting influence of power. Orwell exemplifies this through the altered notion of voluntary work: "This work was strictly voluntary, but any animal who absented himself from it would have his rations reduced by half" (Orwell 73). The pigs employ language as a tool to deceive, molding the perception of freedom while tightening their grip on authority.
Power dynamics intensify with the conflict between Napoleon and Snowball. The struggle for supremacy culminates in Napoleon's ruthless expulsion of Snowball, consolidating power solely in his hands. The subsequent consequences, including food shortages and preferential treatment for the pigs, underscore the corrupting influence of absolute power.
Napoleon's ascendancy to the position of 'president' further exposes the illusion of democracy. Orwell satirically remarks on the farcical nature of the 'election,' stating, "It was absolutely necessary, he said, that the pigs, who were the brains of the farm, should have a quiet place to work in" (Orwell 79). The manipulation of power reaches its zenith as Napoleon secures undisputed control, leading to the degradation of the once-idealistic society.
Ultimately, 'Animal Farm' reveals the tragic consequences of unchecked power. The pigs, once advocates for equality, succumb to the very vices they sought to eradicate. The farm, meant to be a utopia for animals, transforms into a dystopia mirroring the oppressive human society they rebelled against.
Orwell's poignant depiction of the pigs' transformation into human-like oppressors echoes Acton's warning: "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." The pigs' abuse of power leads to a haunting resemblance between them and the humans they initially despised: "Twelve voices were shouting in anger, and they were all alike. No question, now, what had happened to the faces of the pigs. 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" (Orwell 139).
In conclusion, 'Animal Farm' serves as a cautionary tale about the inherent corrupting nature of power. From Old Major's initial influence to Napoleon's tyrannical rule, the novel traces the trajectory of power's transformation from a force for good to a malevolent tool of oppression.
The pigs' journey from advocates of equality to despotic rulers emphasizes the universal truth embedded in Acton's words. The pursuit and consolidation of power, even with noble intentions, often lead to its misuse and eventual corruption. Orwell's masterful narrative paints a vivid picture of the complexities surrounding power, serving as a timeless warning about the fragility of egalitarian ideals in the face of authority.
The Corruption of Power in 'Animal Farm'. (2016, Apr 03). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/animal-farm-4-essay
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