Animal Farm, a classic novella by George Orwell, is a satirical allegory that tells the story of a farm where the animals overthrow their human owner and establish their own society. The book follows their attempts to create a utopia based on equality and freedom, but it ultimately descends into a dystopia ruled by a tyrannical pig.

Here's a detailed breakdown of the novel:

Setting the Stage:

• The story begins on Manor Farm, where the animals are mistreated by their drunken owner, Mr. Jones.
• A wise old boar named Old Major inspires the animals with a dream of rebellion – a farm where they will be free and equal, with the motto "All Animals Are Equal."

The Rebellion:

• The animals, led by the pigs Snowball and Napoleon, revolt and drive out Mr. Jones.
• They rename the farm "Animal Farm" and establish seven commandments of Animalism, which forbid the behaviors that oppressed them under humans.

Building the New Society:

• The animals work together enthusiastically, inspired by a song called "Beasts of England" that embodies their dream.
• Snowball, the idealistic leader, proposes a windmill to improve their lives, while Napoleon, the cunning and ruthless pig, favors a simpler approach.

The Power Struggle:

• A conflict arises between Snowball and Napoleon for control of the farm.
• Napoleon uses his loyal dogs to chase Snowball off the farm, consolidating his power.

Corruption and Dystopia:

• Napoleon emerges as the pig dictator, slowly dismantling the principles of Animalism.
• The windmill project becomes a symbol of control, rebuilt and destroyed multiple times.
• Squealer, Napoleon's propagandist, manipulates the commandments to justify Napoleon's actions.
• The farm falls into decline, with the animals working harder for less, and the leaders living a life of luxury.

The Final Twist:

• The book ends with a chilling scene where the pigs walk on two legs and enter into a business alliance with the humans they once rebelled against.
• The final commandment is changed to "All Animals Are Equal, But Some Animals Are More Equal Than Others," highlighting the betrayal of the revolution's ideals.

Animal Farm as an Allegory:

The novel is a scathing critique of totalitarianism, particularly the Soviet Union under Joseph Stalin. The characters represent different aspects of the Russian Revolution:

• Mr. Jones: Tsar Nicholas II
• Old Major: Karl Marx
• Snowball: Leon Trotsky
• Napoleon: Joseph Stalin

Themes Explored:

Animal Farm explores timeless themes that resonate with readers even today. These include:

• The dangers of power and its corrupting influence
• The importance of ideology and its manipulation
• The struggle for equality and freedom
• The role of propaganda in shaping public opinion

By using animals as characters, Orwell creates a fable that is both simple and profound, making Animal Farm a powerful and enduring work of literature.