Animal Farm: The Challenge of Establishing Equality

In the opening chapters of "Animal Farm" by George Orwell, the animals are beginning to organize their society based on the impassioned speech delivered by Old Major and the establishment of The Seven Commandments. Old Major's speech, which serves as the foundation for the animals' rebellion, calls for a society free from human oppression, where animals can be equal, free, and happy (Old Major suggests that "All men are enemies. All animals are comrades."). He envisions a utopia of equality where no animal exploits another. Inspired by these ideals, the animals overthrow Mr. Jones and set out to build their new society, encapsulating their principles in The Seven Commandments, such as "All animals are equal" and "No animal shall kill any other animal." However, while the early days of their new-found freedom are filled with hope and unity, there are subtle signs of emerging inequalities and power struggles, particularly with the pigs beginning to assume leadership roles, suggesting there may be challenges in adhering strictly to Old Major's vision. The ideals of animalism in "Animal Farm" closely mirror the principles of communism, as both advocate for a classless society where the means of production are owned collectively, and everyone is equal. Communism calls for the abolition of private property and the equal distribution of wealth, much like how animalism promotes shared ownership and equal status among all animals. However, just as history has shown with human communism, the novel hints at the possibility that those in power (the pigs) may become corrupt and stray from the initial ideals, leading to a system that is unequal and oppressive.