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George Orwell's "Animal Farm," published in 1945, is a thought-provoking novella that delves into the complexities of language manipulation and propaganda. The story unfolds on a farm where a group of animals, inspired by the ideals of equality and freedom, overthrow their human owner. However, their journey takes a dark turn as the pigs, who assume leadership, gradually become corrupt, and the dream of a utopian society fades into oblivion. This essay explores the pervasive use of language as a tool of control in "Animal Farm," focusing on propaganda, the alteration of rules, and the influence of songs and slogans.
In the novella, propaganda plays a pivotal role in manipulating and controlling the other animals on the farm.
Squealer, the eloquent propagandist, skillfully exploits the potency of language to justify Napoleon's nefarious actions and maintain the pigs' authority. Several techniques are employed by Napoleon and Squealer to deceive the proletariat, including the use of simplified slogans and the deliberate limitation of debate.
One notable example is the alteration of the maxim "four legs good, two legs bad" by the sheep, who initially used it to unify the animals against their human oppressors.
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Under Squealer's influence, the phrase is transformed into "four legs good, two legs better," reflecting a tragic irony as the pigs themselves become indistinguishable from the humans they once despised.
Squealer also employs complexity in language to sow confusion and intimidation among the less-educated animals. His statement to the birds that "a bird's wing is an organ of propulsion and not of manipulation" exemplifies this deliberate obfuscation, leaving the birds bewildered and unsure of his true intentions.
Furthermore, Squealer resorts to false statistics, lies, and boastful vocabulary to foster a sense of hopelessness and self-doubt among the other animals.
Deception becomes his modus operandi, as evidenced when he justifies the pigs' appropriation of milk and apples by falsely claiming that "many of us actually dislike milk and apples." Additionally, he uses invented statistics, asserting that "Milk and apples (this has been proven by Science, comrades) contain substances absolutely necessary to the well-being of a pig." These distortions serve to justify the pigs' selfish behavior while maintaining their hold on power.
The pigs' manipulation of language extends beyond propaganda to the alteration of rules, most notably the Seven Commandments that initially guide the animals' behavior on the farm. These commandments are established to unite the animals against humans and maintain order.
However, as the pigs consolidate their authority, they progressively alter the commandments to suit their interests. An early instance of this manipulation is seen in the Fourth Commandment, which initially reads, "No animal shall sleep in a bed." After the pigs move into the farmhouse and begin sleeping in beds, they revise the commandment by adding the phrase "with sheets," thereby justifying their actions and violating the original principles of equality.
The most egregious example of this alteration occurs after Snowball is falsely accused of causing the windmill's collapse. The ensuing trials result in confessions obtained under duress, directly contradicting the Sixth Commandment, which states, "No animal shall kill any other animal." In response, the pigs insert the phrase "without cause" into the commandment, effectively allowing them to execute animals at their discretion. This manipulation of the commandments exemplifies the pigs' hypocrisy and their abandonment of the original ideals.
Throughout "Animal Farm," songs, poems, and slogans serve as potent tools of control and manipulation. These cultural elements are used by the pigs to reinforce their authority and shape the animals' collective consciousness.
One of the most iconic songs in the novel is "Beasts of England," which initially serves as a rallying cry for the animals' revolution against their human oppressors. It symbolizes unity and the pursuit of freedom. However, once the pigs ascend to power, they decide to discard "Beasts of England," viewing it as no longer necessary. Instead, they introduce songs like "Animal Farm" and "Comrade Napoleon" to glorify their own rule, erasing the memory of the original ideals.
Minimus's poem, "Comrade Napoleon," is used by Napoleon to bolster his image and attribute the successes of Animal Farm to his leadership. Despite having a minimal role in the farm's achievements, Napoleon appropriates these accomplishments through propaganda, emphasizing his role as a leader.
The manipulation of songs and slogans demonstrates how language can be harnessed to distort and manipulate beliefs to benefit the ruling class. It underscores the malleability of language and its capacity to shape the collective memory and consciousness of a society.
George Orwell's "Animal Farm" serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of propaganda, manipulation, and the abuse of language in political contexts. Through the allegorical narrative of farm animals, Orwell warns readers about the ease with which leaders can exploit language to deceive and control the masses. The novel underscores the importance of critical thinking and vigilance in the face of persuasive rhetoric.
The character of Squealer, in particular, represents the deceptive power of language. His ability to "turn black into white" and his use of false statistics highlight the danger of blindly accepting information without scrutiny. Readers are reminded that skepticism and critical analysis are essential tools for safeguarding against manipulation.
The alteration of the Seven Commandments underscores the erosion of principles and values when language is used to justify self-serving actions. The pigs' hypocrisy becomes apparent as they abandon the very ideals that fueled the rebellion, revealing how language can be twisted to suit the interests of those in power.
Furthermore, the manipulation of songs and slogans emphasizes the role of culture and collective memory in shaping a society's identity. The replacement of "Beasts of England" with songs glorifying Napoleon illustrates how those in authority can rewrite history and manipulate cultural symbols to maintain control.
George Orwell's "Animal Farm" is a powerful critique of the manipulation of language and the abuse of propaganda in political contexts. Through the characters of Squealer, Napoleon, and the alteration of the Seven Commandments, Orwell exposes the insidious nature of linguistic manipulation and its role in maintaining oppressive regimes.
The novel serves as a stark reminder of the importance of critical thinking, skepticism, and vigilance in the face of persuasive rhetoric. It cautions against blindly accepting information and highlights the need for a discerning and informed citizenry.
Ultimately, "Animal Farm" stands as a timeless allegory that resonates with readers across generations, urging them to remain vigilant against the misuse of language and the erosion of principles in the pursuit of power. Orwell's warning about the dangers of language manipulation remains as relevant today as it was when the novel was first published in 1945.
The Manipulation of Language in George Orwell's "Animal Farm". (2016, Dec 16). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/animal-farm-language-as-a-tool-of-control-essay
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