Nicole Calape BSED 3A (EL116)

A Historical Analysis of Animal Farm

  

     Animal Farm was written by George Orwell, one of the world's most influential writers. This literature was published in 1945 that criticizes the Soviet Union's corruption of socialist ideals. According to Gale (2015) George Orwell used farm animals to represent figures of the Russian Revolution(here) to illustrate how promises of equality in a revolution can be turned into oppressive regimes of domination. In this story, the animals' planned to kill their human owners that starts off equally but turned to despair. Orwell uses the novel, written as an allegory of the Russian Revolution, to criticize how moral principles become corrupted by power. We will examine just how Animal Farm reflects Historical Criticism, in which the characters and events of the story parallel real people and events from early Soviet Russia.

    The story talks about pigs, led by Napoleon, start keeping privileges for themselves like milk and apples the idea of equality is betrayed. The famous commandment, “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others,” highlights this shift.

                                    Historical Parallels (Historical Criticism)

    

    Through a historical perspective, Animal Farm can be viewed as a book that describes and relates to the events and personalities of Soviet Russia (here). It creates relationships between the main character in the novel with historical figures:

Napoleon is Stalin: Napoleon employed his political might to eliminate his rival, Snowball, in a manner almost identical to how Stalin forces Trotsky out of his country. Napoleon’s increasing control over the farm reflects Stalin’s dictatorship.

Snowball as Trotsky: Snowball is passionate and idealistic but is eventually driven out. His role mirrors Trotsky’s influence and eventual fall from Soviet politics.

The Dogs as the Secret Police: Napoleon’s trained dogs symbolize Stalin’s use of the NKVD (secret police) to silence opposition, instilling fear among the animals. Through these characters, Orwell critiques how revolutionary ideals are often twisted by leaders who prioritize power over justice. Even the song “Beasts of England” is eventually banned by Napoleon, just as Stalin censored ideas that could inspire rebellion.

(Napoleon is Stalin)

(Snowball is Trosky)

    In Animal Farm, Orwell reveals that revolutions don’t always lead to fairness and freedom; often, new leaders continue exploiting the working class. Using Historical Criticism together, we can reflect immediately how the Soviet Union's failure to hold on till the end to live up to the ideal truly reflects in Orwell's story. It warns us about dangers that come from unchecked power and reminds the readers that true equality is hard to come by when corrupt leaders grasp it.

SUMMARY VIDEO OF THE LITERATURE:

How about you? What do you think of Orwell’s message in Animal Farm? Share your insights or favorite moments in the comments!