Why is the ending of Animal Farm significant to the meaning of the story that the novel tells?
The ending of Animal Farm is significant to the meaning of the story as it symbolizes the complete corruption and distortion of the ideals and principles of the original animal revolution, presenting a scathing critique of totalitarianism and power structures.
Throughout the novel, the animals of Animal Farm overthrow their human dictator, Mr. Jones, aspiring to establish a society based on equality, freedom, and fairness. However, as time passes, the pigs, led by Napoleon, gradually seize control and manipulate the other animals to serve their own interests. By the end of the story, the pigs have become indistinguishable from the oppressive human masters they initially rebelled against.
The final scene of the novel depicts a dinner party where the pigs and humans are seen playing cards, drinking, and forming alliances. The once-revolutionary pigs, who had vowed never to adopt any human traits, now walk on two legs, wear human clothes, and fully collaborate with the human oppressors. The other animals, who observe this scene, cannot distinguish between the two groups, symbolizing the betrayal of the original revolution and its ideals.
This ending signifies the perversion of power and the corrupting influence that accompanies it. The pigs, who represent the ruling class and emerge as the new oppressors, prioritize their own interests over the welfare of the other animals. The ending undermines the utopian goals of the revolution, showing how power can corrupt even the most idealistic movements.
It also serves as a criticism of totalitarianism and the dangers of leaders who abuse their power. The pigs' transformation into corrupt human-like beings demonstrates the nature of oppressive regimes, where leaders exploit idealistic principles to consolidate their authority and suppress dissent.
Furthermore, the ending emphasizes how propaganda and manipulation play a crucial role in maintaining power. The pigs slowly twist the commandments of Animalism to suit their own desires, gradually erasing the memory of the original principles that motivated the revolution. By the end, the pigs rewrite the fundamental commandment "All animals are equal" to "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others," exemplifying the hypocrisy and manipulation that fuels oppressive systems.
In summary, the ending of Animal Farm is significant as it reveals the complete corruption of the revolution's ideals, critiques totalitarianism, and warns against the dangers of power and manipulation. It serves as a cautionary tale about the perversion of noble movements and the potential for leaders to betray the very principles they proclaim.