TEQ PROMPT- Discuss the protagonist’s* evolution throughout the novel. Include evidence that illustrates who the character is at the beginning, the middle, and the end of the story.
You must use direct quotes as evidence.
You need to include a parenthetical citation after each quote.
*you are reading Animal Farm
In George Orwell's novel Animal Farm, the protagonist is the pig named Napoleon. Throughout the story, Napoleon undergoes an evolution from a charismatic leader advocating equality and fairness to a power-hungry dictator. The evidence of this transformation can be observed through quotes that highlight Napoleon's character at the beginning, middle, and end of the novel.
At the beginning of the story, Napoleon portrays himself as an advocate for the equal rights of all animals. For instance, when the animals overthrow Mr. Jones and take control of the farm, Napoleon makes a speech emphasizing the importance of equality. He states, "All animals are equal" (Orwell 7). This quote demonstrates Napoleon's initial commitment to the principles of Animalism, promoting fairness and equal treatment for all.
In the middle of the story, Napoleon shows signs of becoming more authoritarian and begins to consolidate his power. One example of this is when he takes nine newborn puppies in secret and subsequently trains them to be his personal guards. When questioned about this action by another animal, he asserts, "They are my own offspring" (Orwell 34). This quote highlights Napoleon's growing tendency to prioritize his personal interests and power, rather than upholding the animal's ideals of equality and fairness.
Towards the end of the novel, Napoleon fully transforms into a tyrant and manipulates the other animals for his benefit. One prime example of this is when he modifies the original commandments of Animalism to suit his needs. For instance, he alters the commandment from "No animal shall sleep in a bed" to "No animal shall sleep in a bed with sheets" (Orwell 54). This change reveals Napoleon's willingness to rewrite history and manipulate the rules to serve his own desires, completely contradicting his initial commitment to equality and fairness.
In conclusion, Napoleon's evolution throughout Animal Farm is evident through his character development. Initially, he presents himself as a champion of equality, but as the story progresses, he becomes more power-hungry and manipulative. The quotes provided demonstrate the shift in his values and actions, ultimately leading to his transformation into a ruthless dictator.
In George Orwell's novel, Animal Farm, the protagonist of the story is not a singular character, but rather the collective group of animals who rebel against their human oppressors. Throughout the novel, these animals undergo a significant evolution in their beliefs, actions, and leadership. This evolution is illustrated through various quotes that depict who the animals are at the beginning, middle, and end of the story.
At the beginning of the story, the animals are filled with idealism and hope for a better future under their own rule. One of the earliest quotes that exemplifies this is when Old Major, the wise and respected boar, calls for a rebellion against their human masters. He states, "Whatever goes upon two legs is an enemy. Whatever goes upon four legs, or has wings, is a friend" (Orwell 7). This quote demonstrates the initial clarity of the animals' vision, viewing humans as the enemy and their fellow animals as allies.
In the middle of the novel, after the successful revolution has taken place and the pigs have assumed leadership, the animals begin to witness a subtle but noticeable shift in power dynamics. This change is portrayed in a quote from Napoleon, the ambitious and manipulative Berkshire boar, when he confronts the other animals about their suspicions regarding the pigs' actions. He states, "Comrades, you do not imagine, I hope, that we pigs are doing this in a spirit of selfishness and privilege? Many of us actually dislike milk and apples" (Orwell 36). This quote highlights the beginning of the pigs' corruption and their transformation from comrades to ruling class, as they start to use their authority for their own benefit.
Towards the end of the story, the animals undergo a tragic realization as they witness the true extent of the pigs' tyrannical rule. Boxer, the hardworking and loyal horse, who has represented the proletariat, is sent to the knacker's yard despite his unwavering dedication to the cause. This moment is encapsulated in the quote, "The van drove off, but out of it there came a low 'neigh' of a horse. The terrible thing that happened afterward was only momentarily incredible" (Orwell 58). This quote exposes the betrayal and disillusionment felt by the animals, as their supposed comrades now inflict harm and even death upon their own kind.
In conclusion, the animals in Animal Farm undergo a significant evolution throughout the novel. They begin with idealistic aspirations for a fair and equal society, only to witness their dreams shattered by the rise of corrupt leadership. The quotes explored from the beginning, middle, and end of the story showcase this evolution, portraying the animals' hopeful beginning, the signs of corruption in their midst, and their eventual realization of the pigs' betrayal.
To discuss the protagonist's evolution throughout the novel Animal Farm, we need to examine the character development of Napoleon, the main protagonist and leader of the farm. Let's explore three key stages of Napoleon's evolution and the evidence that reflects who he is at the beginning, the middle, and the end of the story.
1. Beginning: At the start of the novel, Napoleon appears to be an idealistic leader, voicing revolutionary ideas of equality and liberation for all animals: "Comrades, you have heard already about the strange dream that I had last night. But I will come to the dream later. I have something else to say first" (Orwell, 11).
2. Middle: As the story progresses, Napoleon begins to consolidate his power and demonstrates a shift towards a more authoritative and manipulative character. He takes control of the farm and starts asserting his dominance: "Napoleon was now never spoken of simply as 'Napoleon.' He was always referred to in formal style as 'our Leader, Comrade Napoleon'" (Orwell, 58).
3. End: Towards the end of the novel, Napoleon's evolution becomes evident as he becomes a tyrannical dictator, abandoning the principles he once advocated. He employs fear and violence to maintain control: "Somehow it seemed as though the farm had grown richer without making the animals themselves richer – except, of course, for the pigs and the dogs" (Orwell, 113).
By analyzing these stages, it becomes clear that Napoleon's character evolves from an idealistic leader to a power-hungry dictator. The use of direct quotes with parenthetical citations adds validity and supports the interpretation of Napoleon's development throughout the story.