In George Orwell's Animal Farm, the pigs' rise to power illustrates how leadership can corrupt ideals and lead to tyranny. Initially, the pigs represent the revolutionary spirit of Animalism, promoting equality and freedom from human oppression. However, as they gain control, they manipulate the principles of Animalism to justify their privileged status. For example, Napoleon, the main pig, changes the commandment "All animals are equal" to "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others." This shift marks a betrayal of the revolutionary ideals and shows a deep moral decline that results in a tyrannical regime.
The pigs become the very oppressors they once overthrew, demonstrating Orwell's belief that unchecked power corrupts leaders and deprives the masses of their rights and freedoms. Through this story, Orwell warns of the cycle of power and its potential for corruption, emphasizing the need for accountability and vigilance in leadership.