What are the Commandments in Animal Farm?
George Orwell’s classic novel, Animal Farm, is a allegorical tale that explores the themes of revolution, power, and corruption. The story revolves around a group of animals who rise up against their oppressive human masters and establish their own society. At the heart of this society are the Seven Commandments, which serve as the guiding principles for the animals. In this article, we will delve into the origins, significance, and evolution of these commandments throughout the novel.
The Seven Commandments were first written by Old Major, the wise old boar who inspired the animals to rebel against their human masters. These commandments were intended to ensure that the animals would never return to the tyranny of human rule. The original commandments were as follows:
1. Whatever goes upon two legs is an enemy.
2. Whatever goes upon four legs, or has wings, is a friend.
3. No animal shall wear clothes.
4. No animal shall sleep in a bed.
5. No animal shall kill any other animal.
6. No animal shall drink alcohol.
7. No animal shall live in luxury.
These commandments were meant to create a society where all animals were equal and lived in harmony. However, as the novel progresses, it becomes evident that the commandments are not as infallible as they once seemed. The animals, particularly the pigs, begin to interpret and manipulate the commandments to suit their own agendas.
One of the most significant changes to the commandments occurs when Napoleon, the cunning pig who takes control of the farm, alters the first commandment to read: “All animals are equal, but some are more equal than others.” This subtle change allows Napoleon to assert his dominance over the other animals while still maintaining the illusion of equality.
Another example of the commandments being twisted to serve the pigs’ interests is when the animals are forced to work longer hours. The pigs justify this by claiming that the commandment “No animal shall drink alcohol” is being violated, and therefore, the animals must work harder to earn the right to rest.
As the novel reaches its climax, the commandments have been further corrupted. The pigs, now living in luxury and wearing clothes, have become indistinguishable from the humans they once overthrew. The original ideals of equality and freedom have been replaced by a new form of oppression, as the pigs exploit the other animals for their own gain.
In conclusion, the commandments in Animal Farm serve as a powerful tool for examining the nature of power and corruption. As the animals struggle to maintain their revolution, the commandments evolve and are manipulated to suit the needs of those in power. Orwell’s novel ultimately serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that the ideals of equality and freedom are fragile and can be easily corrupted by those who seek to maintain their dominance.
