Usually an allegory (fairy tales) has a relatively simple moral or lesson. Lord Acton’s pronouncement “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely” may come to mind. How and why is this statement applicable to the course of the events in the novel?

Answer 1

The statement "Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely" is highly applicable to the course of events in the novel. Throughout the story, the pigs slowly gain more and more power, eventually becoming the absolute rulers of the farm. As their power increases, the pigs become more corrupted, abusing their authority and treating the other animals poorly.

For example, Napoleon, the main pig in power, alters the Seven Commandments to suit his own needs and desires, showing his disregard for the principles the farm was founded upon. He also becomes more cruel and brutal, using his secret police force to suppress any dissent and punish those who oppose him.

The other pigs also become corrupted by power, living in luxury while the other animals work hard and struggle to survive. This highlights the dangerous consequences of unchecked power and the importance of maintaining checks and balances to prevent corruption and abuse of power.

Overall, the allegory of Animal Farm serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of tyranny and the corrupting influence of absolute power.