Animal Farm

Text Guides

Structural Features Analysis

Symbols

Symbol Meaning Analysis
The farm The Soviet Union under Communist rule Through this symbol, Orwell critiques the oppressive nature of totalitarian states and the betrayal of revolutionary ideals.
The windmill Manipulation of the working class – initially a project for the common good, but becomes a tool for the pigs to consolidate power The windmill symbolises empty promises of progress that are exploited by those in power to maintain control over the masses.
Seven Commandments Principles of equality and a means of maintaining order The gradual changes emphasise the erosion of equality and the manipulation of laws by those in power to suit their own interests.
The pogs The ruling class, specifically Stalin and his regime Orwell uses the pigs to highlight the ways in which those in power often betray the principles they originally stood for, becoming indistinguishable from the oppressive regimes they replaced.
Milk and apples Riches, wealth, and privilege The pigs feel entitlement to these ‘spoils of war’ and claim ownership of them at the expense of the other animals.
Old Major's skull Appropriating the past to give legitimacy to the new regime Napoleon digs up the skull and uses it as a symbol of fealty, though later abandons this which suggests he is also jettisoning any principles he deems inconvenient.
Jone's rifle Animal victory over humans The animals claim this rifle after the Battle of the Cowshed when the humans are forced to retreat. Thus, it is a trophy they use to celebrate their success.

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