Book Review: Animal Farm By George Orwell

Animal Farm By George Orwell - a book critising the totalitarian techniques of Stalin

The real name of George Orwell was actually Eric Blair. He was born in Burma in 1903 and subsequently his mother brought him to England in 1904 for his education. George Orwell was bullied by his classmates at St. Cyprian. In addition, the school was governed by the schoolmaster's wife in a totalitarian manner. Such is the reason for his political beliefs.

Blair later joined the imperial police force after getting a scholarship in 1917. Here, he too resented the authoritian role which he played, such as ill-treating of collies. Ultimately, he detested both the totalitarian left wing (communism) as well as the right wing(fascism). Animal farm was written when German was pushed back into Europe by Russia. The fable, as many should know, derided Stalin.

Animal Farm was written between November 1943 and February 1944 when Germany was being pushed back into Europe. Prior to the cold war, Britain and the USSR were 'friends' since they had a common enemy - Germany. At that point in time, the publishing of Animal Farm was delayed. It was only during the end of World War 2 that this book was published.

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The Story Of Animal Farm

Animal Farm was formed when the animals drove Mr Jone's away from their territory much like the Bolshevik's revolution in Russia. The Old Major, a wild boar, resembling Karl Marx, gave the idea for the revolution.

After the revolution, the farm was initially dominated by the group of pigs with the main characters being Snowball and Napolean. They convinced the animals to obey the 7th commandments just like the Bolshevik's slogan ''Peace Land Bread''. Soon after, the pigs bent the rules of the 7th Commandments to suit their individual needs. For instance, pigs started to use human beds ostensibly for better treatment of "leaders of the farm" when it was in fact for their own selfish gains.

The next main part of the story involves Napolean kicking Snowball out of the farm just like Stalin exiling Trotsky from the politoburo. "Summary Trials" involving slaughtering of chickens and cows in support of Snowball was carried out.

Eventually, Animal Farm did form multiple alliances with the two neighbouring farms of humans even though it was against the 7th commandments. This was in synonymous with Stalin forming alliance with Germany and Russia during World War 2.

This book later depicted more treacherous deeds of Snowball such as sending Boxer (a horse) for slaughtering at the butcher's in exchange for purchasing whisky. At the end of the story, the pigs were depicted as no different from the human who originally governed the farm.

TThis book is indeed an interesting satire describing why "dictatorship by the masses" is not a feasible method. Everyone, be it animal or human, will definitely look after their own self interest. As long as a leader is present, there will not be any form of equality between fellowmen. The harsh rule of Stalin is indirectly criticised as well.

For those adept in reading behind the lines, this book will make an enlightening read.