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Animal Farm Knowledge Organiser 2

Questions Quote Technique Analysis

Conflict, Characterisation, Key Incident (build up), Theme

Snowball and Napoleon were by far the most active in debates. But it was noticed that these two were never in agreement: whatever suggestion either of them made, the other could be counted on to oppose it.

Conflict Contrast Long Sentence Word Choice: "active",

"debates", "never", "counted on", "oppose",

Theme of conflict/power/intelligence

Firstly introduces the similarities between the two characters - although they are contrasted throughout, Orwell makes it clear that their ambitions presented in a similar way. This reinforces the conflict that existed between the two, though - they were both extremely vocal about their own ideas regarding the direction the development of Animal Farm should take, causing a great deal of tension between the two. The elongated sentences mimic the long and persistent disagreements that the two have throughout the beginning of the novella.

Word Choice “active” – connotes being present, engagement + caring nature

indicates that, at the beginning, both Napoleon and Snowball cared about the wellbeing of the farm, and did all they could to enact the changes they felt were required.

“debates” – disagreement, discord + strong feelings they felt strongly about their own ideas: demonstrates devotion to cause.

“never” – quite final indicates that there was never a possibility of unity between the two

“oppose” – significant as Napoleon eradicates opposition in the end: where opposition is generally regarded as healthy in terms of democracy, for Napoleon it represented a threat. He only views his own opposition as valid – anyone else’s opposition is treasonous.


All of them came to look at Snowball's drawings at least once a day…Only Napoleon held aloof. He had declared himself against the windmill from the start.

Word Choice: "All", "at least", "Only", "declared",

Short Statement Sentence

The word choice of “all” creates a sense of unity amongst the animal population, and stresses the fact that they hold Snowball, and his ideas, in high regard. In ensuring that they visit the plans “at least once a day”, the animals consistently reinforce this devotion to Snowball – a fact that makes Napoleon increasingly more uncomfortable. The short, statement sentence at the end emphasises Napoleon’s blatant opposition to Snowball, with word choice of “declared” stressing the


fact that his opinion is unchangeable. However, it also places him in direct opposition with the other animals. Here, he is in conflict with the animals as well as Snowball – a conflict which he resolves later in the novella.


One day, however, he arrived unexpectedly to examine the plans. He walked heavily round the shed, looked closely at every detail of the plans and snuffed at them once or twice, then stood for a little while contemplating them out of the corner of his eye; then he suddenly lifted his leg, urinated over the plans, and walked out without uttering a word.

Longer Sentences List Tone – distasteful Word Choice: "examine",

"heavily", "snuffed", "urinated", "uttering",

Theme of conflict, greed, power, corruption, cruelty/brutality, suffering

The longer sentences utilised here to describe Napoleon’s interactions with the plans, are a stark contrast to the sentences used to describe his opposition. In listing his movements and actions as he peruses the plans, the reader gets the sense that he is labouring over them, analysing them in excruciating detail. From this, we assume that he is looking for things to find wrong with the plans, his distaste for them made clear through the word choice of “snuffed”. This elongated sentence creates suspense, and builds up dramatic tension – the reader begins to expect some form of retaliation, when considering the conflict that exists between the two characters. However, the fact that he “urinated” over them exemplifies his extreme disrespect – not only for the plans, but for Snowball’s ambition too. This extreme act is representative of Napoleon’s own character as we are disgusted by his action – here he is acting like an unthinking animal, and not the poised and dignified character we have become accustomed to. This response emphasises that he is, at his core, an animal, and is subject to his baser instincts. These instincts mean he gives in to corruption!!

Conflict, Characterisation, Key Incident, Theme

There was a terrible baying sound outside, and nine enormous dogs wearing brass-studded collars came bounding into the barn. They dashed straight for Snowball, who only sprang from his place just in time to escape their snapping jaws.

Longer Sentences Tension Characterisation Word choice: "terrible",

"nine enormous", "collars", "only", "his place", "snapping"

Theme of power/control, manipulation, corruption, conflict

The elongated sentences here create tension throughout this key incident, as the reader is unsure of what is going to happen, and is fearful for the characters involved. Through the sensory description of the “terrible baying sound”, Orwell immediately immerses the reader in this overwhelming scene – they are first deafened by the terrifying, harsh sounds, and are then overwhelmed by the image of the dogs. Their re-introduction contrasts with the previous portrayals of the animals – where they were innocent, they are now savage. This emphasises the extent of Napoleon’s corrupt influence – he has manipulated these innocent animals into become symbols of fear, and uses them to drive away his only opponent.


Word Choice “collars” – connotations of restriction, control and ownerships

represents Napoleon’s restrictive/oppressive influence: he owns these aggressive characters, and it is clear he will utilise them to get what he wants.

“only” – their goal was clear, they knew who their target was this attack was planned.

“his place” – connotations of belonging, ownership he has been ousted out of his position within the community, a position he owned and had worked hard for emphasises true nature of Napoleon and the cruelty of his reign, whilst making the act seem unfair/unjust.

“snapping” – adds to the drama and aids Orwell in developing a terrifying image of the attack.


"Comrades," he said quietly, "do you know who is responsible for this? Do you know the enemy who has come in the night and overthrown our windmill? SNOWBALL!" he suddenly roared in a voice full of thunder. "Snowball has done this thing! In sheer malignity, thinking to set back our plans and avenge himself for his ignominious expulsion, this traitor has crept here under cover of night and destroyed our work of nearly a year..."

Capitalisation Rhetorical Questions Exclamatory Statement Metaphor: "voice full of

thunder" Word Choice: "Comrades",

"overthrown", "our", "roared", "destroyed",

Theme of power, corruption, control, manipulation, fear

In opening with the word “comrades” – a word repeated throughout the text, Orwell introduces a sense of friendship and kinship. This word means ‘friend’, and is used throughout the text by characters in a position of power to manipulate the uneducated into following their rule – as they make it seem as though they view themselves as equals to their followers. This manipulative use of the word alters the word’s meaning in the reader’s minds somewhat – it is no longer a symbol of friendship, and becomes, instead, a linguistic representation of Napoleon’s corrupt leadership. Following on from the use of “comrades” being used as a way of making Napoleon’s followers feel part of his decision-making, the utilisation of rhetorical questions does something similar. They engage the animals in the discussion, and force them to think about who they would blame the act on – they automatically begin to assign blame on other animals, forcing them to momentarily turn on one another. The exclamatory sentence following these questions emphasises the fact that Napoleon is not interested in their thoughts/opinions – he gives them the answer, and


simultaneously gives them a figure to hate. As the windmill was a symbol of their hopes and dreams, its destruction represents their eradication – giving them someone to blame it on is Napoleon’s way of uniting them behind him.

Word Choice “overthrown” – connotations of defeat and conquer

represents the way the animals feel in response to the destruction of the windmill

“our” – connotations of unity, comradery and belonging heightens feelings of loss as stresses the fact that the windmill belonged to the animals, and has been taken from them forcibly.

“roared” – connotations of fear, aggression and violence a strong response, foreshadows the aggression we will see from Napoleon’s character as the text progresses.

Capitalisation “SNOWBALL” – emphasises strength of feeling behind this, and

adds drama to the event clear that Napoleon is shouting this.Conflict, Characterisation, Key Incident, Theme

"Comrades, here I pronounce the death sentence upon Snowball."

Statement Sentence Tone - matter-of-fact Word Choice: "comrades",

"pronounce", personal pronoun "I", "death sentence"

Theme of death, brutality, corruption, power, tension, conflict, greed, control.

Napoleon’s uses a short, concise statement to simply state Snowball’s fate – his treachery will result in his death. The matter-of-fact tone developed here implies that this is a natural part of society, and detracts from the awfulness of this conclusion – it doesn’t seem as awful as it is. However, where the gravity of this conclusion is underplayed by the tone of the sentence, the horrifying nature of the threat is made clear through the use of word choice. The personal pronoun “I” emphasises the fact that it is Napoleon who has made this decision – he is in control of the fates of all animals on the farm, and has truly stepped into his role as leader. He once again uses the word “comrades” to manipulate his followers – this repeated phrase being one of the many ways Napoleon invokes a sense of connectedness between himself and the other animals. From the beginning of his


statement, they feel as though they have been a part of the decision making, despite the fact that it is clear they have had no say in it. The word choice of “death sentence” has a tone of finality to it – the decision has been made, and the outcome cannot be changed. The threat of death, in the face of rising against Napoleon, reintroduces a sense of fear, and increases the likelihood of complete devotion to him – no one would wish to face the death penalty by displeasing him in the future. Through this short statement, Napoleon has therefore increased his control through manipulation of his followers, and through the use of fear – his corruption is wholly terrifying and blatantly obvious at this time.

Characterisation, Key incident (build up), Theme

His answer to every problem, every setback, was "I will work harder!" - which he had adopted as his personal motto.

Repetition of phrase/ "every"

Dash Tone of

certainty/surety/determination

Word Choice: "every", "I will", "harder", "adopted", "motto"

Theme of power, corruption, subjugation/subservience, control

Here, the repetition of “every” emphasises the extent to which he used the phrase – it became a crutch, something for him to use in any instance of adversity or difficulty. The tone of certainty invokes the reader’s faith in Boxer – we believe in him, and just as this phrase becomes his constant, so too he becomes a character we can rely on in the face of difficulty and fear. His determination is commendable, and endears him to the reader, as he is completely devoted to Napoleon’s cause, and to the plight of animalism. However, this determination acts as his own downfall – as his reward for dedication and loyalty to both Napoleon and animalism is, inevitably, his death.

Word Choice: “I will” – this demonstrates strength of his commitment, as it is

a statement rather than a wish. He will ensure he continues to push himself further and harder, with no regard for his own wellbeing.

“harder” – connotations of burn-out, stress and fatigue foreshadows his eventual demise borne out of his inability to go on. He pushed himself too far.

“adopted” – connotations of introduction, newness, and accepting emphasis that this motto has been brought in to accommodate Napoleon’s reign: this was not a part of his


outlook before. “motto” – connotations of comfort, repetition and strength

this motto provided him with comfort, and with the strength to push himself on, through its repetition.


Boxer was an enormous beast, nearly eighteen hands high, and as strong as any two ordinary horses put together. A white tip down his nose gave him a somewhat stupid appearance, and in fact he was not of first-rate intelligence, but he was universally respected for his steadiness of character and tremendous powers of work.

Contrast "enormous beast" vs Boxer's character

Long Sentences Word Choice:

"enormous", "beast", "stupid", "universally respected", "steadiness", "tremendous powers"

Theme of power, intelligence vs lack of, devotion/loyalty, control.

Boxer’s description somewhat jars with the reader’s understanding of his character – he is physically imposing, and is yet one of the most gentle animals we come across. Thus, Orwell develops a contrast between expectation of what his character will be like, and the reality. In utilising elongated sentences throughout the description, his immensity is magnified, utilising the description “enormous beast” to epitomise this. Considering that “beast” commonly has negative connotations of aggression, intimidation and violence, the reader immediately regards Boxer as a character to be feared. However, the as the description develops, Orwell presents him as a character with no education – he works hard, wherever he is directed to, because he does not know any better, and is, as such, “universally respected” for this. However, this work ethic leaves his character open to manipulation – despite his immense size, his strength is abused by the pigs, demonstrating the dangers of a lack of education, as well as of blind loyalty.


Napoleon is always right. Short sentence Repetition across the

novel Tone of certainty +

confidence Word Choice "always",

"right" Theme of power,

corruption, lack of intelligence, control, devotion/loyalty

These short, repeated phrases enable Orwell to develop a tone of confidence in self and belief, emphasising Boxer’s loyalty to the maxims of Animalism – he will do all he can to ensure the betterment of the regime. This blind devotion is representative of Boxer’s own vulnerability – in being uneducated, he is unable to make up his own mind, and therefore relies whole-heartedly on Napoleon’s teachings. The use of short sentences perhaps betrays his own simplicity of thought, but is also representative of Napoleon’s own mastery over him – he created short phrases which the animals would find easy to remember, and has indoctrinated them with these maxims.


"He is dead," said Boxer sorrowfully. "I had no

Tone of anguish/regret/melanchol

This is perhaps one of the most moving moments within the text, as Boxer’s strength and power – throughout the text regarded a positive


intention of doing that. I forgot that I was wearing iron shoes. Who will believe that I did not do this on purpose?"

y Short Sentences Question Theme of regret, power,

suffering, purity/innocence

aspect of his character – here has disastrous consequences. The purity of his character is, however, conveyed through the tone of anguish developed through the multitude of short, simple sentences. The fact that they come in quick succession of one another is indicative of his own melancholy – he cannot believe that he has ended someone else’s life. Thus the question at the end epitomises his own emotional suffering – he worries about how others will perceive him, as throughout he continues to be a symbol of goodness and morality. Although this example would, in isolation, suggest the opposite is true, his regret at harming another emphasises the fact that he is a reliable, kind and caring character

Characterisation, Key incident, Theme

"Alfred Simmonds, Horse Slaughterer and Glue Boiler, Willingond. Dealer in Hides and Bone-Meal. Kennels Supplied.' Do you not understand what that means? They are taking Boxer to the knacker's!" A cry of horror burst from all the animals.

Elongated Sentence Listing Question Exclamatory sentence Word Choice:

"slaughterer", "boiler", "bone-meal", "knacker's", "horror", "all"

Theme of intelligence, mortality/death, brutality, corruption, suffering, control.

The elongated sentence here acts as a representation of the length of time it takes for the animals to realise Boxer’s true fate – even with the aid of Benjamin, they realise too late to help him. Benjamin’s short question conveys his own panic – the reader gets the feeling that he is both frustrated at their inability to recognise what is right in front of them, as well as at the manipulative nature of the pigs. Through the word choice of “slaughterer”, Boxer’s fate is made all the more horrifying – with connotations of suffering, brutality and horror, this word conveys the suffering Boxer is yet to endure at the hands of the ‘knacker’s’. This is only intensified by the further use of “boiler” and “bone-meal” – it is most evident that Boxer has met his tragic end. As a final plea – for understanding more than anything else – Benjamin uses an exclamatory sentence, to emphasise the true nature of Napoleon’s plan, an exclamation that is met with the horrified response we would expect. Thus, in this quotation Napoleon’s brutality is unearthed – this is one of the key moments where the animals recognise this brutality, and react to it.

Characterisation, Key incident (impact), Theme

Day and night we are watching over your welfare. It is for your sake that we drink that milk and eat those apples. Do you know what

Series of short statement sentences

Question Exclamation sentences Contrast (day and night),

In opening this extract with the contrast “Day and night”, Squealer emphasises the extent to which the pigs look out for the animals on the farm. He stresses that they are watching over them all day every day, immediately invoking a sense of gratefulness from the uneducated animals. This gratefulness means that the animals are immediately blind


would happen if we pigs failed in our duty? Jones would come back! Yes, Jones would come back!

Word choice: "day and night", "milk", "failed", "duty"

Theme of fear, manipulation, corruption, power, control

to the corruption taking place before them – they cannot see that the pigs are beginning to adopt the habits of Jones. Squealer uses a series of statements to ensure that the message is simple to understand for all animals, and effectively conveys his key point – that the consumption of ‘human food’ is a requirement to ensure that the pigs can continue to care for the animals on the farm. Indeed, the word choice of “milk” connotes nurture, wellbeing and strength – it would be ridiculous for the animals to want anything other than strength for those looking out for them. This sense of acceptance is reinforced by the combination of exclamations and questions – Squealer uses his linguistic prowess to simultaneously make the animals feel included, as though their opinions are worth something, and fearful of the consequences of denying the pigs their new form of food. Thus, Squealer draws on language and manipulation to ensure that the animals continue to view the pigs positively – their blind loyalty to animalism, and to Napoleon, means that they will accept his explanations.

Characterisation, Theme, Tone

Only old Benjamin professed to remember every detail of his long life and to know that things never had been, nor ever could be, much better or much worse - hunger, hardship, and disappointment being, so he said, the unalterable law of life.

Elongated Sentence Listing Sentence Structure (dash) Pessimistic tone, Alliteration "h" Word Choice: "only",

"professed", "hunger", "hardship", "disappointment", "unalterable", "law",

Themes of suffering, power, control, corruption, intelligence vs lack of

Here, Benjamin is proven to be a reliable source of knowledge – a character aware of the true nature of society, power and politics, and resigned to the inevitability of suffering. In recognising that “only” Benjamin can remember all he has experienced, Orwell once again places a distance between the uneducated and the educated. The former are locked out from understanding the world, and are therefore vulnerable to the manipulation of their desire for a better life. Benjamin, rather pessimistically, is educated, and is aware of the dark side of society. Where other characters of a similar educational status have chosen to manipulate the power they have been given, Benjamin instead prefers to simply observe – as such, he has an awareness of the true nature of power. The alliteration of the soft “h” introduces an introspective tone, encouraging the reader to look critically at humanity, and at themselves. Through this quotation, Benjamin emphasises the fact that all power is corruptible, and that all life will result in suffering and pain – a world view that is proven to be close to the truth by the end of the novella.


Characterisation, Theme, Key incident, Tone

Napoleon acted swiftly and ruthlessly.

Short sentence Tone of assuredness -

matter of fact Statement Word Choice: "swiftly"

and "ruthlessly" Theme of power,

corruption, brutality, suffering

This short sentence effectively conveys the speed with which Napoleon responds to dissent amongst his followers, and highlights the extent of his own brutality. The simplicity of the statement creates a matter-of-fact tone – this response is not considered to be extreme or unjust. The fact that this is accepted is representative of Napoleon’s conquering of the animals – they accept his decisions, even when they appear to be cruel. Through the word choice “switftly”, Orwell emphasises that Napoleon acted with a clear purpose and goal – this response was planned, a feat making it all the more cruel. However, the word choice of “ruthlessly” effectively encapsulates Napoleon’s corrupt character – with connotations of mercilessness, brutality and malevolence, the reader gets a sense of Napoleon’s true nature.


"Comrades!" he cried, "you do not imagine, I hope, that we pigs are doing this in a spirit of selfishness or privilege"

Repetition of "comrades" across novella

Exclamation Parenthesis ",I hope,", Word Choice: "You", "I

hope", "selfishness", "privilege"

Theme of corruption, power, manipulation, intelligence, loyalty

Again, we see evidence of Squealer’s manipulative character through his rhetoric here, in response to worries over the fact that the pigs were drinking milk. In opening with the word “comrades” – a word repeated throughout the text – Orwell introduces a sense of friendship and kinship. This word means ‘friend’, and is used throughout the text by characters in a position of power to manipulate the uneducated into following their rule – as they make it seem as though they view themselves as equals to their followers. This manipulative use of the word alters the word’s meaning in the reader’s minds somewhat – it is no longer a symbol of friendship, and becomes, instead, a linguistic representation of Napoleon’s corrupt leadership, and Squealer’s manipulations. Following on from the use of “comrades” being used as a way of making Napoleon’s followers feel part of his decision-making, the utilisation of the accusatory “you”, ensures that the animals immediately think in alignment with Squealer – they do not want to be singled out as a non-believer/non-supporter. The parenthesis works in support of this, making Squealer out to be, in some way, slighted by the possibility of animals believing that the pigs are corrupt – the animals feel bad for ever thinking negatively about them.

Characterisation, Key ‘the creatures looked outside Repetition Here, Orwell uses the vocative ‘man’ alongside the word choice of


incident (impact), Theme from pig to man...but already it was impossible to say which was which.’

Vocative "man", Punctuation Word Choice: "man to

pig", "impossible" Theme of corruption,

power, suffering, intelligence, manipulation

‘impossible’, to introduce a sense of disgust. This highlights the corruption of the pigs, emphasising that they have become the things they once loathed. It is clear that they are now just as bad as the farmer – they have fallen prey to corruption and as such can no longer be trusted. Through the repetitive structure, and through the word choice of “impossible”, it becomes clear that the pigs have become corrupted beyond redemption – the reader worries that there is nothing that can be done to save the remaining animals from their tyranny.


All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others.

Short Statement Sentence Tone - matter-of-fact, Word Choice: "All"

"equal", "but" Theme of power,

corruption, manipulation, intelligence.

This statement represents the extent of Napoleon’s manipulation of the animals – through adding a caveat to the repeated phrase (initially a symbol of kinship and unity), this statement now serves the idea that there is a social hierarchy within the animals. The main clause provides positive assurance, through its continued use of the inclusive “all”, and the reference to everyone being “equal” – the animals feel as though they are on a level footing, and are valued. However, the conjunction “but” introduces a change in sentiment, ensuring that even the mottos work now in favour of Napoleon’s unchallenged rule. The matter-of-fact tone here perhaps speaks to the extent of their subjugation – the animals are completely ruled by Napoleon and his pigs, and, due to a lack of education and understanding, are doomed to continue down this path of oppression.

Characterisation, Conflict, Key incident (build up), Theme

Napoleon produced no scheme of his own, but said quietly Snowball's would come to nothing.

Contrast between two characters

Foreshadowing Statement Word Choice: "no", "own",

"quietly", "nothing", Theme of power,

corruption, control, conflict, intelligence, brutality.

Here, Orwell substantiates the contrast that exists between the two characters, as the quotation demonstrates two different outlooks on the betterment of the farm. Where Snowball is interested in creating plans to improve the farm – financially and socially – Napoleon is not. His distaste for the plans is perhaps evidenced through Orwell’s word choice of “schemes” in this sentence, when referring to the plans. As this word has connotations of manipulation, conspiring and distrust, this expression represents the fact that Napoleon will not allow himself to accept plans from anyone but himself – they would ensure that he is too easily manipulated. Through foreshadowing Snowball’s demise, the subordinate clause states that Snowball’s plans will not succeed – there is an underlying tone of threat though, implying that Napoleon will


make sure of it. This is generated through the fact that Napoleon states this “quietly” – we get a clear sense that he too is conspiring against Snowball.


Somehow it seemed as though the farm had grown richer without making the animals themselves any richer.

Repetition "richer" Tone of

confusion/conversational tone

Juxtaposition of two ideas Word Choice: "somehow",

"without" Theme of corruption,

power, control, intelligence, loyalty, suffering

Throughout this extract, Orwell develops a tone of confusion, representative of the confusion of the animals as they try to figure out why their own living conditions continue to worsen. This is emphasised through the repetition of “richer”, mimicking their own attempts to understand the fact that they are getting poorer – less rations, less leisure time, worsening living conditions – when the farm seems to be thriving. It is evident that the animals are aware in some way that they are being treated unjustly, but can’t yet pinpoint who is betraying them. This lack of awareness is exemplified by the word choice of “somehow” – they know that they are being treated poorly, but due to a lack of education do not know much more than that. This emphasises the true vulnerability of the animals – due to their uneducated nature, and to the fact that they blindly devote themselves to Napoleon’s cause; they are consistently manipulated as Napoleon continues to abuse his power.


He carried a whip in his trotter

Pronoun "he" Matter-of fact tone Contrast Symbolism Word Choice: "whip",

"trotter" Theme of corruption,

power/control, intelligence, suffering, brutality.

This short phrase is perhaps one of the most frightening in the novella, is it provides a physical representation of Napoleon’s corruption. The matter-of-fact tone makes it all the more frightening, as he is now unconcerned about the fact that he is now wielding a weapon. Before, the “whip” was symbolic of man's abuse and exploitation and, as such, was a much-reviled object. It was one of the first things the animals destroy after the Rebellion. Due to this, they felt free – free from pain, suffering, and fear. However, in this moment, these feelings return, demonstrating Napoleon’s complete corruption. He has become the oppressive figure he fought to overthrow, contrasting his characterisation at the beginning, and does not seem to recognise the problem with it – or just doesn’t care. This corruption is emphasised through the word choice of “trotter” – Orwell is making it clear that he is an animal acting as though he is a man, making the betrayal of his own people seem even more horrifying and brutal.


Characterisation, Conflict, Key incident (build up), Theme

Napoleon took no interest in Snowball's committees.

Contrast Conflict Foreshadowing Word choice: "no",

"Snowball's", "committees"

Theme of power, corruption, manipulation, suffering, brutality, intelligence.

This disinterest continues to emphasise the contrast between the two characters, and their differing approaches to their newfound power. Where Snowball looks to form “committees” – with connotations of kinship, comradery and unity – to ensure that all animals have a voice in the decisions made in relation to the farm, Napoleon stands against this. His disinterest is perhaps one of the first clues the reader has as to the kind of character he is, and foreshadows his dictatorial rule. In taking “no interest”, he states that he does not care about listening to his people – his voice is the only one that matters, and he will ensure that he uses his voice to achieve and maintain power.


Four legs good, two legs better.

Repetition, and alteration, of phrase throughout the novella

Contrast Word Choice: "better", Theme of control, power,

corruption, manipulation, intelligence, suffering.

This statement represents the extent of Napoleon’s manipulation of the animals – through adding a caveat to the repeated phrase (initially a symbol of acceptance and power for the animals); this statement now serves the idea that becoming human-like is a positive for the animals. The first half of the motto provides positive assurance – this is the phrase they repeated to draw courage and regain confidence, ensuring that the animals still feel valued. However, the second half indicates a change in sentiment, ensuring that even the mottos work now in favour of Napoleon’s unchallenged rule. The matter-of-fact tone here perhaps speaks to the extent of their subjugation – the animals are completely ruled by Napoleon and his pigs, and, due to a lack of education and understanding, are doomed to continue down this path of oppression. Similarly, the reader knows that the will adopt this new motto with little to no opposition – they have been completely dominated by Napoleon.

Characterisation, Key incident, Theme

Snowball now gave the signal for the charge. He himself dashed straight for Jones.

Statement Sentences Short Sentences Contrast Matter-of-fact tone Symbolism (Snowball), Word Choice: "signal",

"himself", "dashed", Theme of power, loyalty,

kindness

This introduces Snowball as a courageous character, willing to put his life on the line for the betterment of the animals. In the authoritative way in which he takes charge – “now” – he is made out to be a true leader, contrasting with Napoleon’s persona. This is reinforced by the decisive word choice of giving “signals” – this has connotations of leadership and decisiveness, emphasising the fact that he is in control here (a fact that Napoleon would undoubtedly be uncomfortable with). Snowball takes ownership of the situation, and decides that he himself will end Jones’ reign. Thus Snowball is symbolic of the farm’s hopes for


freedom, and of their desires for a better world – hopes which are arguably destroyed when Napoleon exiles him from the farm.

Characterisation, Key incident (build up OR just after the key incident of initial revolution), Theme

Napoleon then led them back to the store-shed and served out a double ration of corn to everybody, with two biscuits for each dog. Then they sang 'Beasts of England' from end to end seven times running.

Contrast (between what they had, and what they have now, as well as a contrast between Napoleon now and later etc)

Repetition (song across novella)

Word Choice: "double ration", "served", "seven times", "running"

Theme of power, control, manipulation, corruption, intelligence, loyalty

This quotation pre-empts Napoleon’s corruption, contrasting with his later persona – however is arguably part of his machinations – and makes him out to be a kind and caring character. In providing animals with a “double ration”, he attempts to gain their trust, and make it seem as though he cares for them. The word choice of “served” reinforces this, as it has connotations of subservience, aid and assistance. Here, Napoleon has put himself in the place of assistant, all the while pulling the strings in the background – although he appears to be subservient, there is no doubt in the reader’s mind that he is in control. This is reinforced by the repetitive singing of “Beasts of England” – he knows that the song invokes a feeling of connectedness and joy within the animals, and uses this to manipulate them, using emotion to cloud their judgement of him. Here, Napoleon is depicted on the surface as a caring character; however the reader sees evidence of his highly intelligent manipulation working in the background, making them fearful for what is to come.

Characterisation, Conflict, Key incident (impact), Theme

You have heard then, comrades,' he said, 'that we pigs now sleep in the beds of the farmhouse.'…'You would not rob us of our repose, would you, comrades? You would not have us too tired to carry out our duties? Surely none of you wishes to see Jones back?

Repetition 'comrades' Multitude of rhetorical

questions Accusatory use of 'you', Word choice: "now",

"rob", "tired" Theme of corruption,

power, manipulation, language, suffering, intelligence

The utilisation of the accusatory “you”, ensures that the animals immediately think in alignment with Squealer – they do not want to be singled out as a non-believer/non-supporter, and wish to be seen to be loyal to Napoleon and his rule. The use of the word “comrades” – a word repeated throughout the text – Orwell introduces a sense of friendship and kinship. This word means ‘friend’, and is used throughout the text by characters in a position of power to manipulate the uneducated into following their rule – as they make it seem as though they view themselves as equals to their followers. This manipulative use of the word alters the word’s meaning in the reader’s minds somewhat – it is no longer a symbol of friendship, and becomes, instead, a linguistic representation of Napoleon’s corrupt leadership, and Squealer’s manipulations. This is followed by a multitude of rhetorical questions, each in quick succession of one another, which again are designed to make the animals think about their perceptions of the pigs


– the way each question is worded implies that sleeping in beds is a positive change, and is something to be welcomed – a fact which the less intelligent animals accept in response to Squealer’s rhetoric.


As soon as they were weaned, Napoleon took them away from their mothers, claiming he would be responsible for their education.

Elongated Sentence Word choice: "weaned",

"took them away", "claiming", "responsible",

Theme of corruption, power, manipulation, loyalty, intelligence/education

This quotation epitomises Napoleon’s cruelty, and emphasises the lengths he is willing to go to to maintain power – he has taken children away from their mother. The elongated sentence mimics the length of time he waited before removing them from the mothers – with the sentence break perhaps representative of the fracture this caused within their family. Through the word choice of “responsible”, Orwell emphasises that Napoleon is now simply taking power – he is not waiting to be given it. He recognises the potential of the puppies, and is eager to ensure he can use them for his own purposes – taking control of their “education”. This means he can ensure they have no outside influence, and are indoctrinated with his own particular form of education. This creates an ominous tone – the reader recognises that this traumatic act will, most likely, have disastrous consequences for the puppies.

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