What does parasitic mean in Animal Farm?
In George Orwell’s allegorical novel “Animal Farm,” the term “parasitic” takes on a profound and multi-layered meaning. It refers to the exploitative relationship between the ruling class and the working class, where the former benefits at the expense of the latter. This concept is illustrated through the characters and events that unfold on the farm, revealing the corrupting influence of power and the inevitable descent into tyranny.
The story begins with the animals rising up against their human masters, led by the pig Napoleon and his comrade Snowball. The animals overthrow the human owners and establish a new society, where they believe they will finally be free from oppression. However, as time passes, the pigs gradually take on more power and become increasingly tyrannical, leading to a parasitic relationship with the rest of the animals.
The pigs, especially Napoleon, embody the parasitic nature of their regime. They live in luxury, eating the best food and sleeping in comfortable beds, while the other animals toil tirelessly in the fields. This stark contrast between the ruling class and the working class highlights the parasitic nature of the pigs’ rule. They exploit the labor of the animals to maintain their power and privileges, ultimately leading to the downfall of the utopian ideals that were once held by the animals.
Moreover, the parasitic relationship extends beyond the physical exploitation of the animals. The pigs manipulate the other animals through propaganda and fear, ensuring their continued dominance. They distort the original goals of the revolution, leading the animals to believe that their sacrifices are for a greater cause. This manipulation serves to perpetuate the parasitic relationship, as the animals remain unaware of the true nature of their oppression.
The novel also explores the concept of the parasitic mind-set within the pigs themselves. As they rise to power, they become more and more like the humans they once reviled. They adopt human traits, such as greed, cunning, and self-interest, which ultimately lead to their own downfall. This internal parasitism highlights the corrupting influence of power and how it can transform even the most noble of intentions.
In conclusion, the term “parasitic” in “Animal Farm” refers to the exploitative and corrupt relationship between the ruling class and the working class. It illustrates the corrupting influence of power, the manipulation of propaganda, and the internal parasitism that can occur when individuals rise to power. Orwell’s allegory serves as a cautionary tale, reminding readers of the dangers of tyranny and the importance of vigilance against those who seek to exploit others for their own gain.
