From Conflict to Identity: Main Issues Explored in US Literary Education - Sykalo Eugen 2023

What are the themes of conformity and rebellion in George Orwell's “Animal Farm”?

George Orwell, a towering figure in the realm of political allegory, whose profound literary works continue to resonate with audiences across generations. In his timeless masterpiece, "Animal Farm," Orwell deftly navigates the treacherous terrain of power and ideology, delving into the intricate themes of conformity and rebellion that permeate the narrative. Through the allegorical portrayal of a farm revolution, Orwell shines a piercing light on the human capacity for both subjugation and resistance.

Central to "Animal Farm" is the theme of conformity, which manifests in the initial stages of the revolution. The animals, inspired by the idealistic vision of Old Major, rise up against their human oppressors, seeking liberation and equality. However, as the revolution unfolds, the dream of a utopian society gives way to a new form of oppression. The pigs, led by the cunning and manipulative Napoleon, seize control, gradually establishing a totalitarian regime that mirrors the very oppression they initially rebelled against.

Conformity, in this context, represents the relinquishment of individual autonomy in favor of blindly adhering to the ideals and mandates of a ruling authority. The animals, driven by their collective desire for freedom, find themselves subject to a new set of rules and regulations imposed by the pigs. The Seven Commandments, initially designed to govern their egalitarian society, become distorted and manipulated by the pigs to justify their own privileges and suppress dissent.

Orwell astutely highlights the insidious nature of conformity through the characterizations of the animals. Boxer, the loyal and diligent cart-horse, epitomizes blind conformity, unquestioningly accepting the pigs' propaganda and sacrificing his own well-being for the collective good. His unyielding loyalty serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of uncritical adherence to authority, even when it leads to one's own exploitation.

However, amidst the bleakness of conformity, Orwell presents the contrasting theme of rebellion as a beacon of hope and resistance. Throughout the novel, a small faction of animals, led by the spirited Snowball, represents the vanguard of rebellion against the oppressive regime of Napoleon and the pigs. Snowball's vision of a truly egalitarian society, marked by shared decision-making and collective welfare, stands as a stark contrast to the conformity imposed by the pigs.

Rebellion, in "Animal Farm," symbolizes the indomitable human spirit's refusal to accept subjugation and its yearning for justice and freedom. Through the characters of Snowball and those who align with him, Orwell explores the power of dissent and the inherent right of individuals to challenge oppressive authority. The rebellion manifests through debates, discussions, and the tireless pursuit of democratic ideals, standing as a testament to the human desire for self-determination.

Orwell deftly underscores the complexities of rebellion, however, by exposing the challenges and setbacks that arise when confronted with the machinery of power. Snowball's expulsion from the farm and subsequent demonization by Napoleon and the pigs demonstrate the lengths to which those in power will go to suppress dissent and maintain control. The pigs' manipulation of language and propaganda further solidify their grip on power, effectively silencing any opposition and perpetuating a culture of conformity.

The themes of conformity and rebellion intertwine in Orwell's masterful allegory, highlighting the delicate balance between the desire for individual freedom and the allure of conformity. The gradual erosion of the animals' agency and the perversion of their revolutionary ideals reflect the dangers of unchecked conformity and the insidious nature of power. By juxtaposing the struggles of individual animals against the larger backdrop of political allegory, Orwell invites readers to reflect on their own societal contexts and the precarious nature of both conformity and rebellion.

George Orwell's "Animal Farm" serves as a searing indictment of the pitfalls of conformity and a potent exploration of the transformative power of rebellion. Through his richly symbolic narrative, Orwell sheds light on the human struggle for autonomy and justice, urging readers to question the structures of power and the dangers of relinquishing individual agency in the face of oppressive regimes. This timeless work stands as a testament to Orwell's literary brilliance and his unwavering commitment to exposing the complexities of human nature and the political landscape.