Is it not crystal clear, then, comrades, that all the evils of this life of ours spring from the tyranny of human beings? Only get rid of Man, and the produce of our labour would be our own. Almost overnight we could become rich and free. What then must we do? Why, work night and day, body and soul, for the overthrow of the human race! That is my message to you, comrades: Rebellion!

Question

–Animal Farm,
George Orwell

What evidence from the text best supports the idea that Old Major thinks that animals should be equal to humans? Check all that apply.

“Is it not crystal clear, then, comrades . . .?”
“Only get rid of Man, and the produce of our labour would be our own.”
“Almost overnight we could become rich and free.”
“What then must we do?”
“That is my message to you, comrades: Rebellion!”

Answer 1

The evidence from the text that best supports the idea that Old Major thinks that animals should be equal to humans includes:

1. “Only get rid of Man, and the produce of our labour would be our own.” - This statement directly implies that the animals are entitled to the fruits of their labor, which they are currently denied by humans. It suggests that the animals should have ownership and equality with humans in terms of labor and its rewards.

2. “Almost overnight we could become rich and free.” - This emphasizes the potential for animals to achieve a status similar to or better than humans, suggesting that once liberated from human control, animals can have wealth and freedom, just like humans.

3. “That is my message to you, comrades: Rebellion!” - This call to action highlights Old Major's belief in the animals' right to resist oppression and fight for their equality, as they should stand against the tyranny of humans.

The other lines, while they contribute to the overall theme of rebellion and the desire for change, do not directly express Old Major's belief in animal equality with humans.