Satire in animal farm. Animal Farm Satire Analysis 2022-10-31

Satire is a literary device that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock societal issues, individuals, or institutions. George Orwell's novel "Animal Farm" is a satirical allegory that uses animals on a farm to symbolize the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalin's dictatorship. The novel is a critique of the Soviet Union's betrayal of the ideals of the revolution, as well as a commentary on the corrupting influence of power.

One of the primary ways that "Animal Farm" uses satire is through its portrayal of the pigs, who represent the leaders of the Soviet Union. The pigs, who are the most intelligent animals on the farm, take on the roles of leaders and advisors to the other animals. However, as the novel progresses, the pigs become more and more corrupt and selfish, using their intelligence and charisma to manipulate the other animals and maintain their own power.

For example, the pig Napoleon, who represents Stalin, uses propaganda and fear to control the other animals, even going so far as to manipulate the rules of the farm to suit his own needs. The other pigs also engage in corrupt behavior, such as drinking alcohol and engaging in trade with humans, behaviors that are strictly forbidden to the other animals.

The novel also uses satire to critique the idea of a class system and the way that those in power often use their position to exploit and oppress those below them. The pigs, who represent the ruling class, use their intelligence and charisma to manipulate the other animals and maintain their power, while the other animals, who represent the working class, are kept ignorant and oppressed.

Furthermore, "Animal Farm" uses satire to mock the idea of revolution and the way that it can be co-opted and corrupted by those in power. The animals on the farm overthrow their human owner and create a new society based on the principles of equality and democracy. However, as the pigs take on more and more power, they begin to betray these principles and turn the farm into a totalitarian state. This satirical portrayal of the betrayal of the ideals of the revolution serves as a commentary on the way that revolutions can be co-opted and corrupted by those in power.

In conclusion, "Animal Farm" is a satirical allegory that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize the Soviet Union's betrayal of the ideals of the revolution and the corrupting influence of power. Through its portrayal of the pigs and their manipulation of the other animals, the novel critiques the idea of a class system and the way that those in power often use their position to exploit and oppress those below them. It also mocks the idea of revolution and the way that it can be co-opted and corrupted by those in power.