The harness-room at the end of the stables was broken open; the bits, the nose-rings, the dog-chains, the cruel knives with which Mr. Jones had been used to castrate the pigs and lambs, were all flung down the well. The reins, the halters, the blinkers, the degrading nosebags, were thrown on to the rubbish fire which was burning in the yard. So were the whips. All the animals capered with joy when they saw the whips going up in flames.

Question

–Animal Farm,
George Orwell

What are the purposes of the imagery in this passage? Check all that apply.

to convey a sense of order
to emphasize the cruelty of humans
to create a sense of liberation
to underline the reasons for rebellion
to visualize the victory of the animals

Answer 1

The purposes of the imagery in this passage from "Animal Farm" include:

• to emphasize the cruelty of humans: The mention of the "cruel knives" and the various tools used for controlling and harming the animals highlights the brutality of Mr. Jones and serves to underline the oppressive nature of human management.

• to create a sense of liberation: The animals' joy at seeing the cruel instruments of their oppression being destroyed signifies their newfound freedom and liberation from human control.

• to underline the reasons for rebellion: The imagery illustrates the oppressive conditions the animals faced, providing a justification for their rebellion against Mr. Jones.

• to visualize the victory of the animals: The act of destroying the tools associated with their subjugation represents a tangible victory for the animals, symbolizing their triumph over their former oppressors.

The option to convey a sense of order does not apply, as the passage depicts chaos and the overturning of the previous order established by humans.