blog




  • Essay / How Orwell Uses Satire in Animal Farm

    In Animal Farm by George Orwell, satire is used to effectively convey the author's message about the corrupting nature of power and the dangers of totalitarianism. Through the use of allegory and various satirical techniques, Orwell exposes the hypocrisy and manipulation that can occur in political systems. This essay will analyze how Orwell uses satire to achieve his goal in this passage, focusing on the themes of power, propaganda, and the manipulation of language. Orwell uses satire to highlight the corrupting nature of power in Animal Farm. The character of Napoleon, symbol of Joseph Stalin, is a perfect example. Through satire, Orwell exposes the hypocrisy and manipulation that can occur when leaders in positions of power prioritize their own interests over the well-being of the community. For example, in the passage where Napoleon seizes the puppies and trains them to become his personal guard, Orwell satirizes the way dictators surround themselves with loyalists to maintain control. This is evident when Orwell writes: “Napoleon was not interested in the Snowball committees. He said that the education of the young was more important than anything that could be done for those who were already adults” (Orwell, 63). This statement is a satirical critique of Stalin's disregard for the opinions and contributions of others, as well as his manipulation of the younger generation for his own gain. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Additionally, Orwell uses satire to expose the manipulation of language as a tool of control and propaganda. The character of Squealer, who represents the propaganda machine of the Soviet Union, is an embodiment of this theme. Squealer's ability to manipulate language allows him to justify the pigs' actions and maintain their power over other animals. In one case, after the pigs change the commandment "No animal shall sleep in a bed" to "No animal shall sleep in a bed with sheets," Squealer explains the change by saying, "You would not deprive us of our rest, right? you?" (Orwell, 36). This satirical use of language highlights how those in power can twist words to deceive and manipulate the masses. Through this satirical critique, Orwell highlights the importance of putting question the language used by those in authority and to be vigilant against the manipulation of words Besides power and propaganda, satire is also used by Orwell to criticize the flaws and hypocrisy of the ruling class. The pigs, who represent the ruling elite, are presented as the main beneficiaries of the revolution, despite their initial demands for equality. Through satire, Orwell exposes the hypocrisy of the pigs and their gradual transformation into the oppressors they sought. to reverse. This is evident in the passage where the pigs begin to walk on two legs, a direct violation of the commandment "No animal shall wear clothes." Orwell writes: "It was a pig that walked on its hind legs. Yes, it was Squealer. A little clumsily, as if not quite accustomed to supporting his considerable mass in this position, but with perfect balance he crossed the yard." (Orwell, 93). This satirical depiction of pigs walking On Two Legs satirizes their betrayal of the principles they initially espoused, as well as their gradual transformation into human-like oppressors throughout.,, 2008.