How Does Orwell Use Propaganda In Animal Farm

931 Words4 Pages

George Orwell’s allegorical novel, Animal Farm, 1944, reflects on the events of the Russian Revolution and the era of Stalin in the Soviet Union. The novel reveals the dangers of a totalitarian government and the impacts this constitution has on social class and individuals. It is a reminder that the utopia of a communist country is unattainable because of the inevitable corruption of ideals. Orwell reminds the reader that uncontrolled power is a manipulative tool that ultimately destroys the fabric of society. As the manipulation of the labouring animals in the novel becomes more evident, Napoleon the pig, whose character is based on Joseph Stalin, the dictator of the Soviet Union, uses manipulation, violence and propaganda to retain power …show more content…

History has proven that the use of media and words to spread the ideals of a state is far more effective than the use of violence. By filtering the information shown to people, their thoughts and actions can be moulded to what is beneficial for any leader. The character Squealer’s actions for the duration of the book is simply provide information to the animals. He deceives the working animals with false information to create a positive image of Napoleon and extinguish any form of dissent. Using their intellectual superiority, the pigs gained immediate leadership, “With their superior knowledge it was natural that they should assume the leadership” (pg 9). Further abusing their power, the education system was used to manipulate and brainwash the new generation, “Napoleon took them away from their mothers, saying that he would make himself responsible for their education” (pg 11) the same responsibility that led to the other animals’ …show more content…

By motivating the labouring animals, they are distracted by the hopes for a better future. An intertextual reference to Don Quixote, the windmill symbolises an impossible dream, a connotation of the empty promises and fictitious dreams made not only by dictators but politicians to exploit people’s trust and naivety. Orwell depicts the character of Boxer as a representation of the labourers or the proletariat. “Squealer made excellent speeches on the joy of service and the dignity of labour, but the other animals found more inspiration in Boxer's strength and his never−failing cry of I will work harder!” (pg 22). The proletariat trusted in Stalin and worked towards their retirement believing that they would be provided for, as they were betrayed by Stalin’s selfishness and greed, unaware that he too had become another victim to uncontrolled