Equality Flashcards
(5 cards)
Quote: ‘All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.’
Analysis: This final alteration of the Seven Commandments exposes the complete breakdown of equality on the farm. Orwell uses this paradox to show how those in power manipulate language to justify inequality and maintain control.
Quote: ‘All animals are equal.’
Analysis: This original commandment represents the revolutionary ideal of a classless society. Orwell uses it to highlight the initial hope for equality, which is ultimately betrayed by the pigs’ corruption and thirst for power.
Quote: ‘It was noticed that the milk and apples disappeared daily to the pigs’ mash.’
Analysis: From the beginning, the pigs take privileges for themselves. Orwell shows how the idea of equality is undermined subtly at first, with small acts of inequality justified as being ‘for the good of all’.
Quote: ‘The animals outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig… but already it was impossible to say which was which.’
Analysis: Orwell ends the novel with this image to show how the pigs have become indistinguishable from the oppressive humans they replaced. It reflects how the pursuit of equality has resulted in a society as unequal as before — or worse.
“Quote: ‘Surely, comrades, you do not want Jones back?’”
Analysis: This manipulative question is used by the pigs to suppress dissent. Orwell critiques how those in power maintain inequality by exploiting fear, even while claiming to promote equality.
