● Has a clear, focused, and compelling claim that unites the piece ● Consistently chooses the most illuminating and relevant evidence to support the claim ● Consistently groups related evidence to build momentum and prove the claim ● Includes clear, simple, and elegant language with no redundancy ● Grammar and spelling exceed grade-level expectations Guiding Question: What is Orwell's message in Animal Farm? Write a well-developed, text-based response of two to three paragraphs. In your response, identify a central idea in the text and analyze how the author’s use of one writing strategy (literary element or literary technique or rhetorical device) develops this central idea. Use strong, specific evidence from the text to support your analysis. Do not simply summarize the text. Be sure to: ● Identify a central idea in the text Use strong, specific evidence from the text to support your analysis ● Meet the standard for work expectations (what are some evidence page numbers that support my topic sentence) written as a 9th grader
In George Orwell's Animal Farm, the central idea is the corrupting nature of power and the inevitable downfall of those who abuse it. Orwell develops this idea through his use of the literary technique of allegory. Throughout the text, the animals on the farm represent different groups of people and the events that unfold parallel the Russian Revolution and the rise of Stalin.
One example of this central idea is seen in the character of Napoleon, the power-hungry pig who takes control of the farm. As the story progresses, Napoleon becomes increasingly more corrupt and tyrannical. This is evident in his manipulation of the other animals, such as when he replaces the commandments with one simple rule for his own benefit. The text states, "All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others" (Orwell 97). This quote highlights the abuse of power and the corruption that comes with it. It shows how Napoleon gradually changes the rules to suit his own desires, ultimately betraying the original principles of Animalism. Through this allegorical portrayal of Napoleon, Orwell emphasizes the idea that power corrupts and leads to the downfall of those who hold it.
Furthermore, Orwell uses the technique of allegory to illustrate the disillusionment and ignorance of the other animals. Despite the obvious abuses of power, the animals continue to trust and follow Napoleon. This is demonstrated through their blind obedience and inability to question his authority. One example of this is when the pigs rewrite history to deceive the other animals. The text states, "It had become usual to give Napoleon the credit for every successful achievement and every stroke of good fortune" (Orwell 77). This manipulation of information shows how the animals are kept in the dark and prevented from realizing the truth. It highlights the idea that power can easily control and manipulate the thoughts and actions of the masses.
Overall, Orwell's central idea in Animal Farm is the corrupting nature of power and the downfall of those who abuse it. Through the use of allegory, he develops this idea by depicting the character of Napoleon as a symbol of tyranny and manipulation. Additionally, Orwell uses the allegorical portrayal of the other animals to emphasize the ignorance and blind faith that often accompany the abuse of power. Through these literary techniques, Orwell warns readers about the dangers of unchecked power and the potential for corruption and oppression.