IndexIntroductionBody ParagraphConclusionIntroductionGeorge Orwell's Animal Farm is a profound allegory that encapsulates the dangers of absolute power and its tendency to corrupt those who hold it. Published in 1945, the novella uses a farm and its animal inhabitants to symbolize the events leading up to the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the subsequent rise of Stalinism in the Soviet Union. Through the story of oppressed animals who overthrow their human breeder only to find themselves under the tyranny of their fellow man, Orwell explores the corrupting influence of power. This essay examines how the narrative of Animal Farm illustrates the axiom "absolute power corrupts absolutely" by detailing the transformation of the pigs from revolutionary leaders to oppressive rulers. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayBody ParagraphAt first, the animals on Mr. Jones' farm are subject to severe exploitation and neglect. Inspired by Old Major's vision of an egalitarian society where all animals are free and equal, they stage a rebellion and successfully overthrow their human oppressor. Initially, the newly formed Animal Farm operates according to the principles of Animalism, where the well-being of the community takes priority over individual gain. The Seven Commandments, especially the saying "All animals are equal", encapsulate the idealistic aspirations of the revolution. However, when the pigs, particularly Napoleon and Snowball, take on leadership roles, the power dynamics begin to change. The rivalry between Napoleon and Snowball represents the initial struggle for control. When Napoleon usurps power by expelling Snowball, the seeds of corruption are sown. Napoleon's rise to power marked the beginning of a regime characterized by deception, manipulation and absolute authority. Napoleon consolidates his power through various means, including revising the Seven Commandments to suit his interests. The initial commandment "All animals are equal" is gradually changed to "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others." This perversion of founding principles reflects the extent of corruption that has taken root. The pigs, now indistinguishable from the human oppressors they once overthrew, indulge in the same vices: drinking alcohol, sleeping in beds, and trading with humans. The use of propaganda and fear further strengthens Napoleon's absolute power. Squealer, Napoleon's propagandist, manipulates language and information to justify the pigs' actions and maintain control over the other animals. The threat of Jones' return is continually invoked to stifle dissent and maintain a climate of fear. The sheep, with their mindless repetition of slogans such as "Four legs good, two legs bad", embody the manipulation and control of the masses. Furthermore, the gradual erosion of individual freedoms and the rise of a totalitarian regime underline the central theme of the novella. The animals, once united by a common cause, find themselves divided and oppressed under new leadership. The betrayal of Boxer, the hard-working horse, symbolizes the utmost corruption of Napoleon's regime. Despite Boxer's unwavering loyalty and tireless work, he is callously sold to the Slayer when he is no longer useful. This act of betrayal highlights the moral decay that accompanies the concentration of power. Orwell's portrait of the pigs' transformation from revolutionary leaders to tyrannical rulers.