What Are the 7 Commandments in Animal Farm?

The allegorical novella Animal Farm, authored by George Orwell, employs a set of principles known as the Seven Commandments, which serve as the initial laws of Animalism. The establishment of these commandments follows the animals' successful rebellion against Mr. Jones, the farm's neglectful owner. Understanding what are the seven commandments in Animal Farm is crucial to interpreting the novel's critique of totalitarian regimes and the corruption of revolutionary ideals, mirroring historical events and the rise of authoritarian power. These tenets, initially intended to ensure equality and freedom, are gradually distorted and manipulated by the pigs, particularly Napoleon, to consolidate their control over the other animals.

The Shattered Dream of Animal Farm

George Orwell's Animal Farm stands as a chilling allegory, a stark and enduring satire of the Russian Revolution and a cautionary tale about the seductive dangers of totalitarianism. Published in 1945, the novella uses anthropomorphic animals to dissect the mechanics of power, exposing how noble intentions can be twisted into oppressive realities.

At its heart, Animal Farm is about the corruption of revolutionary ideals.

Initially envisioned as a utopian society founded on principles of equality and freedom, Animal Farm devolves into a brutal dictatorship under the rule of the pigs. The initial promise of Animalism, a philosophy designed to liberate animals from human tyranny, is gradually eroded. This occurs through systematic manipulation, self-serving revisionism, and the insidious abuse of power.

Contextualizing Animal Farm: History and Allegory

To fully grasp the power of Animal Farm, it is essential to understand its historical context. Orwell, a staunch democratic socialist, witnessed firsthand the rise of totalitarian regimes in the 20th century, particularly Stalinist Russia.

Animal Farm is not merely a story about talking animals; it is a direct commentary on the events and figures of the Russian Revolution.

Each animal character represents a specific class or individual within the Soviet system. Napoleon, the cunning pig, embodies Joseph Stalin. Snowball, his rival, represents Leon Trotsky. The exploited working class is personified by Boxer, the loyal and hardworking cart-horse.

Core Concepts: Animalism, Equality, and the Seven Commandments

The foundation of Animal Farm rests on three core concepts: Animalism, equality, and the Seven Commandments. Animalism, conceived by Old Major, is the philosophical framework that drives the revolution.

It essentially preaches that all animals are equal and should be free from human exploitation.

Equality is the central tenet of Animalism. It promises a society where all animals share equally in the fruits of their labor and are treated with respect and dignity.

The Seven Commandments, derived from the principles of Animalism, are intended to enshrine these ideals into a concrete code of conduct. These commandments, initially painted on the barn wall, serve as the bedrock of Animal Farm's social order. They prohibit actions associated with humans, such as sleeping in beds, drinking alcohol, and killing other animals.

Thesis: The Erosion of Revolutionary Ideals

Animal Farm masterfully demonstrates how revolutionary ideals can be eroded through manipulation of language, exploitation of memory, and insidious corruption, ultimately leading to a dystopian society. The pigs, led by Napoleon, systematically distort the principles of Animalism to consolidate their power, rewriting history and exploiting the other animals' ignorance.

The novel serves as a potent warning against the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding the principles of justice and equality. The initial dream of Animal Farm, a society free from oppression, is shattered, replaced by a new form of tyranny that is even more insidious than the one it overthrew.

The Seed of Revolution: Planting the Ideals of Animalism

Before the descent into tyranny, Animal Farm blossoms with the promise of a better world. This section delves into the initial utopian vision that fuels the animal revolution, scrutinizing the motivating force and principles upon which it is grounded. The charismatic Old Major’s stirring rhetoric and the subsequent codification of Animalism into the Seven Commandments are the key elements explored, each examined for their strengths, weaknesses, and ultimate vulnerability to corruption.

Old Major's Vision: A Utopian Dream?

Old Major's speech is the catalyst for the animal revolution. His pronouncements paint a vivid picture of a world free from the yoke of human oppression.

It is a vision of liberation, where animals control their own destiny and reap the rewards of their labor. This electrifying oration, delivered by the venerable pig, serves as a potent call to action, igniting the flames of rebellion within the hearts of the downtrodden creatures of Manor Farm.

Analyzing Old Major's Promises and Appeals

The power of Old Major’s speech lies in its skillful exploitation of the animals' grievances. He eloquently articulates their suffering, highlighting the injustices they endure at the hands of Mr. Jones.

His address promises an end to exploitation, starvation, and slaughter. He evokes a sense of collective identity and shared purpose, uniting the animals under a common banner of resistance.

He provides answers to the questions, "Why are we suffering?", "What can we do?". The answers are: "Because of man", "Rebel and overthrow man!".

The speech masterfully appeals to the animals’ deepest desires for freedom and security. He paints a compelling picture of a future where their basic needs are met and their inherent dignity is respected.

Inherent Flaws in the Utopian Vision

Despite its initial appeal, Old Major's utopian vision contains inherent flaws. His analysis of the problems seems spot-on but his solutions are too simplistic.

The very notion of a perfect society, free from all forms of conflict and inequality, is inherently unrealistic. The speech glosses over the complexities of social organization and the challenges of managing competing interests. Critically, his plan lacks practical details and clear strategies for maintaining equality and preventing corruption.

Furthermore, Old Major's vision assumes a level of altruism and cooperation that may be unsustainable in the long run. He fails to adequately address the potential for power struggles and the temptation to exploit others.

The Seven Commandments: A Foundation for Equality?

Following Old Major's death, the pigs, being the most intelligent animals, distill his teachings into a concise set of principles known as the Seven Commandments. These commandments are intended to serve as the foundational laws of Animal Farm.

They are designed to enshrine the ideals of Animalism and prevent the re-emergence of human tyranny.

Genesis and Declaration of Principles

The Seven Commandments are not divinely inspired, but rather a pragmatic distillation of Old Major's core message. They are created by the pigs, primarily Snowball and Napoleon, who claim to be acting in the best interests of all animals.

These commandments are prominently displayed on the side of the barn, serving as a constant reminder of the principles upon which Animal Farm is founded. They represent a formal declaration of independence from human rule and a commitment to a new social order.

Embodying Equality and Establishing Social Order

In their original form, the Seven Commandments appear to embody the concept of equality. Each commandment prohibits behaviors associated with human exploitation and reinforces the idea that all animals are equal and deserving of respect.

“Whatever goes upon two legs is an enemy”, "No animal shall sleep in a bed", and "All animals are equal" are examples. These principles are intended to create a framework for a just and equitable society. A society where the animals can live in harmony and prosperity. The commandments provide a clear set of rules designed to prevent the abuse of power and protect the rights of all animals.

Power Corrupts: Napoleon's Rise to Tyranny

With the initial euphoria of revolution fading, Animal Farm witnesses a subtle but seismic shift in power dynamics. This section analyzes Napoleon's calculated ascent to dominance, marking the beginning of the perversion of Animalism's original ideals. We will delve into the tactics he employs to seize control and the pivotal role of propaganda in shaping the animals' perception of reality.

Napoleon's Ascent: A Masterclass in Manipulation

Napoleon's rise is not a spontaneous event, but rather a carefully orchestrated power grab. He shrewdly exploits the other animals' naiveté and limited intelligence. This manipulation is key to understanding the downfall of Animal Farm.

Strategic Moves and Tactics

Napoleon's ascent is characterized by calculated strategic moves. He initially focuses on building a loyal following among the younger animals, particularly Jessie and Bluebell's puppies, whom he raises as his personal guard.

He understood the importance of creating a private security force. This gave him a decisive advantage over any potential dissent. His subtle undermining of Snowball's influence is another tactical masterstroke.

The Expulsion of Snowball: A Turning Point

The expulsion of Snowball represents a watershed moment in the history of Animal Farm. It marks the end of any semblance of democratic process.

It also signifies the complete consolidation of power in Napoleon's hands. Snowball, with his progressive ideas and genuine commitment to Animalism, posed a significant threat to Napoleon's ambitions.

By falsely accusing Snowball of treachery and using his trained dogs to chase him off the farm, Napoleon eliminates his primary rival. He silences any opposition in one fell swoop.

This act of blatant force establishes a climate of fear and intimidation that permeates the rest of the novel.

The Power of Propaganda: Squealer's Twisted Tongue

Napoleon's control over Animal Farm is not solely based on brute force. He also employs a sophisticated system of propaganda to manipulate the animals' beliefs and perceptions. Squealer, the eloquent pig, becomes Napoleon's chief propagandist.

Squealer: Master of Deception

Squealer is a master of rhetoric and doublespeak. He uses his persuasive skills to distort facts. He rewrites history and justifies Napoleon's actions, no matter how self-serving.

He is crucial in maintaining Napoleon's authority. He effectively neutralizes any potential criticism or doubt among the other animals.

Language as a Tool of Control

Squealer's manipulation of language is a central theme in Animal Farm. He skillfully employs euphemisms, half-truths, and outright lies to control the narrative and shape the animals' understanding of events.

For example, when rations are reduced, Squealer claims that the animals are not actually receiving less food, but rather that their rations are being "readjusted."

This linguistic sleight of hand masks the reality of their situation and prevents them from recognizing the pigs' exploitation. He uses complicated jargon to confuse the other animals.

By controlling the flow of information and manipulating the meaning of words, Squealer effectively controls the animals' thoughts and actions.

Rewriting Reality: The Erosion of the Commandments

As Napoleon's grip tightens, the foundational principles of Animalism undergo a disturbing transformation. The Seven Commandments, once pillars of equality and freedom, are subtly, then brazenly, altered to serve the pigs' increasingly self-serving agenda. This section will delve into the manipulation of these laws. It will show how the very fabric of reality on Animal Farm is rewritten. It also showcases the pivotal role of physical alteration as a means of cementing the pigs' dominance.

The Altered Truth: Commandment by Commandment

The corruption of Animalism is not a sudden event, but rather a slow, insidious process of attrition. Each of the Seven Commandments is gradually twisted. It is modified to justify the pigs' actions and further consolidate their power. These changes are often subtle at first, additions of a few words, or reinterpretations of existing rules. However, the cumulative effect is devastating. They undermine the animals' understanding of their own history and principles.

For instance, the commandment "No animal shall drink alcohol" is infamously amended to read "No animal shall drink alcohol to excess." This allows the pigs to indulge in alcohol while maintaining the illusion of adherence to the original principles. Similarly, the prohibition against sleeping in beds is altered to "No animal shall sleep in a bed with sheets." This allows the pigs the comfort of beds, while the other animals continue to suffer.

Perhaps one of the most egregious examples is the manipulation of the commandment "No animal shall kill another animal." This is changed to "No animal shall kill another animal without cause." This provides a convenient justification for the pigs' brutal executions of those deemed "traitors" or "enemies" of the state. The consistent revisions of the commandments are never truly challenged.

The alteration of each commandment, seemingly minor on its own, contributes to a larger erosion of the animals' collective understanding of Animalism. The commandments, once clear and unequivocal, become ambiguous and open to interpretation. This ambiguity serves the pigs' interests, making it increasingly difficult for the other animals to recognize the extent of their exploitation.

Paint as Propaganda: Rewriting the Foundation

The physical alteration of the Seven Commandments, painted on the barn wall for all to see, is a powerful symbol of the pigs' control over the narrative. The use of paint is not merely a practical matter of updating the rules; it is a deliberate act of propaganda. It is designed to reinforce the pigs' authority and rewrite the very foundation of Animal Farm.

The act of physically changing the commandments signifies a profound shift in power dynamics. It demonstrates that the pigs are not only manipulating the animals' minds. But they are also controlling the physical representation of their society's guiding principles. By altering the commandments, the pigs are effectively rewriting history, creating a new reality that aligns with their own interests.

The paint itself becomes a tool of oppression. It is used to erase the original ideals of the revolution and replace them with a distorted version that serves the pigs' agenda. The other animals, witnessing these changes, are left confused and disoriented. They are unable to reconcile the altered commandments with their fading memories of the revolution's promises. This reinforces their dependence on the pigs for guidance and information.

The manipulation of the commandments and their physical alteration underscore the insidious nature of totalitarian regimes. It illustrates how language, history, and even physical objects can be used to control and oppress a population.

Forgotten Promises: The Exploitation of Memory and Ignorance

Beyond the overt manipulation of the Seven Commandments, the pigs' dominion over Animal Farm is solidified by a more insidious tactic: the systematic exploitation of the other animals' fading memories and limited intellectual capacity. This section will explore how the pigs leverage the animals' inherent weaknesses to maintain control. This creates an environment where dissent is stifled and the pigs' narrative reigns supreme. We will also examine the tragic roles of Clover and Benjamin. Both characters represent a glimmer of awareness but are ultimately unable to challenge the ever-tightening grip of the ruling pigs.

The Fog of Memory: A Weapon of Control

The passage of time inevitably blurs the edges of memory. The pigs recognize and ruthlessly exploit this fundamental human (and animal) frailty. They actively cultivate an environment of historical amnesia. This allows them to rewrite the past with impunity.

The animals' inability to accurately recall the original tenets of Animalism, or the specific events of the revolution's early days, renders them vulnerable to Squealer's persuasive distortions. Simple slogans like "Four legs good, two legs bad" replace nuanced understanding. This makes critical thinking virtually impossible.

The pigs are experts in controlling the flow of information. This allows them to present a skewed version of events. This then reinforces their authority and justifies their ever-increasing privileges.

The sheep are taught to bleat slogans on command. This is a prime example of this control. They effectively drown out any dissenting voices with mindless repetition.

By consistently presenting a distorted reality, the pigs gradually erode the animals' ability to distinguish truth from falsehood. This then fosters a state of passive acceptance. This acceptance ultimately enables the pigs to perpetrate even the most egregious acts of injustice.

The Silent Witnesses: Complicity and Resignation

Amidst the general atmosphere of ignorance and manipulation, two figures stand out: Clover and Benjamin. Clover, the loyal and hardworking cart-horse, possesses a strong sense of justice and a dim recollection of the original Commandments. Benjamin, the cynical donkey, is perhaps the most intelligent animal on the farm. He is fully aware of the pigs' deceitful practices.

Clover: The Burden of Recognition

Clover often senses the discrepancies between the pigs' actions and the foundational principles of Animalism. She struggles to reconcile her fading memories with the reality of life on the farm. However, her limited literacy and unwavering loyalty to the revolution prevent her from fully articulating her concerns or mounting any effective challenge to the pigs' authority.

Clover's predicament highlights the tragic consequences of inadequate education and the limitations of even the most well-intentioned individuals in the face of systematic oppression.

Benjamin: The Weight of Cynicism

Benjamin's cynicism, born from a long life of disillusionment, grants him a unique clarity. He sees through the pigs' manipulations from the very beginning. However, his deep-seated pessimism and belief in the futility of action lead him to remain largely passive. He offers only occasional, sardonic commentary.

Benjamin's inaction is perhaps the most heartbreaking aspect of the novel. His intelligence and awareness represent a potential for resistance. However, it is squandered by his paralyzing cynicism. It serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of apathy in the face of injustice.

Both Clover and Benjamin represent the limitations of individual awareness in the face of widespread ignorance and a ruthlessly oppressive regime. Their silence, born from different forms of resignation, underscores the tragic consequences of the pigs' systematic exploitation of memory and intellect on Animal Farm.

The Final Transformation: From Revolution to Repression

The tragic trajectory of Animal Farm culminates in a complete and utter perversion of its initial revolutionary ideals. The farm transitions into a totalitarian state under the pigs' tyrannical rule. This transformation is marked by the pigs' blatant adoption of human characteristics and the emergence of the chilling final commandment. The corruption is then complete.

Becoming Human: The Pigs' Ultimate Betrayal

The pigs' gradual embrace of human habits represents the ultimate betrayal of Animalism. The revolution was, at its core, a rejection of human exploitation and the establishment of a society free from human oppression. However, the pigs, driven by their insatiable lust for power, steadily adopt the very behaviors they once condemned.

Initially subtle, the transformation becomes increasingly pronounced. The pigs begin to sleep in beds, consume alcohol, and engage in trade with neighboring farms. These actions, initially justified through Squealer's twisted logic, become increasingly overt and brazen.

The most shocking symbol of this metamorphosis is the pigs' adoption of human attire and their learning to walk on two legs. This physical transformation signifies a complete abandonment of their animal identity and a full embrace of the oppressor's role. The sight of pigs walking upright, carrying whips, is a chilling image of the revolution's demise. It represents the complete inversion of Animalism and the final triumph of tyranny.

The Inversion of Animalism

These actions are not merely superficial. They represent a fundamental shift in the pigs' ideology and their relationship with the other animals. By emulating humans, the pigs effectively erase the distinction between oppressor and oppressed, becoming indistinguishable from the very enemy they sought to overthrow. The revolution, once intended to liberate animals from human tyranny, has ironically created a new form of oppression under the guise of animal leadership.

The Ironic Truth: The Pinnacle of Inequality

The emergence of the final commandment, "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others," is the epitome of the revolution's failure. This statement, seemingly simple yet profoundly disturbing, encapsulates the complete inversion of the principle of equality and the establishment of a new form of oppression.

The Death of Equality

The original Seven Commandments, initially intended to ensure equality and prevent exploitation, are reduced to a single, self-serving maxim that justifies the pigs' privileged status. The statement openly acknowledges the inherent inequality that has taken root on Animal Farm. It reveals the pigs' true agenda: not to create a truly egalitarian society, but to establish a new hierarchy with themselves at the apex.

This final commandment is not merely a distortion of Animalism. It is a complete and utter rejection of its core principles. It represents the final nail in the coffin of the revolution, solidifying the pigs' absolute power and condemning the other animals to a life of servitude and exploitation. The dream of Animal Farm, once a beacon of hope for a better world, has been extinguished.

So, there you have it! A breakdown of what are the seven commandments in Animal Farm and why they ultimately failed. It's a pretty grim reminder that even with the best intentions, power can corrupt. Food for thought, right?